Natural Gemstones: Reference Facts

Spinel

Spinel is a gemstone with interesting history. For many years, red spinel was thought to be ruby. Spinel was recognized as a separate gem around 15 century. The most famous spinel is the "Black Prince's Ruby", a magnificent 170-carat red spinel in the British Crown Jewels. In addition, the large and famous 361-carat "Timur Ruby" owned by Queen Elizabeth is actually spinel. Spinel is a stone to collect either you are gemstone lovers or collectors.

Besides red, spinel is also found in other colors such as blue, pink, orange, lavender, black. Red spinel is sometimes called ruby spinel or balas ruby. Fine blue spinel is sometimes called cobalt spinel, but this stone is very very rare. The yellow-orange or red-orange spinel is sometimes called rubicelle or flame spinel.

Today, spinel is much coveted treasure and very much in demand. Despite the worldwide economic slowdown, spinel is rising in price. Its rarity, natural beauty, magnificent brilliance and excellent hardness make spinel a special gemstone and ideal collector's stone. In fact, fine spinel is rarer than ruby and sapphire. Next to the red spinel, blue spinel and pink spinel are the most popular and the most highly valued. Top-quality stones in large size are extraordinarily rare and will command the highest price.