Natural Spinel Gemstones and Custom Spinel Jewelry. |
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What is Spinel?Before the advent of modern gemological techniques, red Spinels and Rubies were confused for hundreds of years. In fact, many famous rubies in crown jewels around the world are actually spinels. Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide that crystallizes in the cubic system while ruby is an aluminum oxide that crystallizes hexagonally. In ancient times, red spinel was often known under the name "Balas Ruby", a name devised most probably from Balascia or Badakhshan in Northen India where the earliest gemstones came from. Vivid red and cobalt blue are considered to be the most expensive colors for spinel and faceted stones over 3 carat in weight are always a rarity. The best red spinels are from Tanzania or Burma but almost all of the large stones are from Tanzania. The finest spinels are actually a highly saturated pinkish or orangey red and very few stones are pure red. The colors of the top Tanzanian stones are so vivid that they appear to glow even in ordinary daylight. Pure colorless natural spinel is very rare and natural white spinels always show a trace of pink. Star spinels are found occasionally and they may display either four or six rays depending on their orientation. While Spinels with a strong color change are extremely rare, stones that display a blue to violet color shift are more available. Because of its hardness, high brilliance, and wide range of spectacular colors, spinel is a favorite among collectors and connoisseurs. Spinel is also popular because it is not known to be treated in any way. With a hardness of 8 and no cleavage planes, spinel is a tough and durable gemstone suitable for any kind of jewelry. Looking for one of a kind custom spinel jewelry piece?Please find your spinel jewelry or visit our online jewelry workshop. Our approach to custom jewelry highlights the qualities of each individual gemstone to create a personalized design that enhances and respects the integrity of the stone. Ask a Certified GemologistCall now 1-310-594-5101 in USA or drop us an email and we will get back to you within 6 hours. |
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