The Underrated Royal Gem

For centuries, Spinel was one of the most misunderstood—and yet most treasured—gemstones in the world. Mistaken time and again for ruby and sapphire, Spinel quietly adorned royal crowns and imperial treasures across Europe and Asia. The famous 170-carat "Black Prince’s Ruby" in the British Crown Jewels? It’s actually a red Spinel.

Today, Spinel stands on its own as a gemstone of extraordinary beauty, rarity, and scientific distinction. It is no longer the understudy—it’s the star.

🔴 Scientific Profile

Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄. It crystallizes in the isometric system, forming well-proportioned octahedral crystals that are often naturally gem-quality. It ranks 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for rings and daily-wear jewelry.

Its refractive index ranges from 1.718 to 1.738, and its specific gravity sits between 3.58 and 3.61. Unlike many other gemstones, Spinel is almost never treated—its colors are natural, stable, and undiluted by enhancements. This makes Spinel a true gem for purists and connoisseurs.

🌈 Color and Variety

One of Spinel’s most dazzling features is its remarkable range of colors. From ruby-red to cobalt blue, pastel lavender, hot pink, and even steely gray—Spinel covers nearly the full spectrum. Each color is a result of trace elements like chromium (for red and pink), iron (for gray and violet), and cobalt (for blue).

Red Spinel is the most historically prized, often mistaken for ruby due to its vivid, saturated tones and high brilliance. Fine red Spinel from Burma rivals, and in some cases exceeds, ruby in clarity and beauty—at a fraction of the price.

Blue Spinel is another collector favorite. True cobalt-blue Spinels are extremely rare and come mainly from Sri Lanka and Vietnam. These gems are highly sought after for their pure, velvety color and scarcity.

Pink Spinel, often found in Tanzania and Myanmar, delivers an electric glow that is both youthful and vibrant. Neon-pink varieties from Mahenge, Tanzania, are especially prized for their intensity.

Lavender and Violet Spinel offer subtle elegance and are perfect for those seeking soft, sophisticated shades with brilliance and uniqueness.

Gray, Black, and Colorless Spinel varieties are less common but are increasingly appreciated by designers and collectors for their neutral tones and metallic luster.

📜 History and Significance

Spinel has a rich and royal past. For hundreds of years, it was mined alongside corundum (ruby and sapphire), and until modern gemological equipment became available, the two were nearly indistinguishable. In fact, many “rubies” in royal treasuries were later identified as Spinel.

In ancient Persia and throughout the Mughal Empire, Spinel was revered and worn by emperors and warriors. Known as “Balas Ruby,” it was highly valued for both its color and its reputed ability to protect the wearer in battle.

Today, Spinel is recognized as one of the official birthstones for August—a well-deserved nod to its legacy and appeal. It symbolizes revitalization, clarity, and inner strength.

💎 Spinel in Jewelry

Spinel is a favorite of modern designers due to its hardness, luster, and dazzling range of natural colors. Its ability to take a sharp polish and resist wear makes it perfect for rings, earrings, pendants, and even engagement settings.

Because it is rarely treated or enhanced, every Spinel gemstone is a true reflection of nature’s craftsmanship. It performs beautifully in both antique-style designs and clean, modern settings. Its brilliance and durability make it a true alternative to ruby or sapphire, with a unique identity all its own.

✨ Discover the Brilliance of Spinel at Chicago Gems & Jewelry

At Chicago Gems & Jewelry, we proudly offer an elite collection of natural Spinels—from rich Burmese reds to neon pink Mahenge beauties and rare cobalt blues. Each gem is hand-selected by our GIA graduate gemologist for its color purity, brilliance, and authenticity.

Whether you’re searching for a regal red for a bespoke ring, a vivid pink for a one-of-a-kind pendant, or a unique lavender stone to add to your collection, we have the perfect Spinel waiting for you.

Family owned and operated in Crystal Lake, Illinois since 2008, Chicago Gems & Jewelry is your trusted source for fine, natural gemstones. Visit us in-store or connect online and experience the excellence that sets us apart.

Chicago Gems & Jewelry – Where Knowledge Meets Beauty, and Every Stone Tells a Story.