Exploring the Beauty of Spinels in Jewelry
It’s been a while since we talked about gemstones. In this blog, we are going to delve into the fascinating world of Spinels.
Spinels are one of my absolute favorite gemstones, but explaining what spinels are is often necessary when I show them to clients. So, let’s jump right in and discover the wonders of spinels.
The History of Spinels:
Spinels have a rich history in jewellery, dating back centuries. They have been used in jewellery as long as rubies have been, as spinels are often found in similar regions to rubies and sapphires. However, it wasn’t until 1783, when John Baptiste Louis Rome de l’Isle, a French mineralogist, distinguished spinels as a unique gemstone.
Where Spinels Are Found:
Spinels are mined in various parts of the world, including Tajikistan, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and one notable locality is the Tajikistan spinel deposits in Kuh-i-Lal.
Characteristics of Spinels:
Spinels are renowned for their brilliant colors. They come in almost every color of the rainbow, except for a pure green and pure yellow. Colorless or clear spinels also exist. They are known for their octahedral crystal structure, resembling two pyramids joined at the base. One remarkable characteristic of spinels is their high refractive index, which gives them incredible sparkle.
The Name “Spinel”:
The name “spinel” is derived from the Latin word “spina,” which means “thorn.” This name is a reference to the thorn-like shape of spinel crystals.
Spinel vs. Rubies:
Spinels were once known as “balas rubies” because people were aware that they were distinct from true rubies. Rubies have a long history and were owned by various empires and monarchies. For example, they have been a part of the English Crown Jewels since the 14th century.
Spinel Popularity:
In recent years, the price of spinels has risen significantly, particularly as rubies have become increasingly expensive. Spinels are gaining popularity in the international market due to their unique characteristics and vibrant colors.
Variety of Colors:
Spinels exhibit a wide range of beautiful colors, from hot pinks to subtle peaches and rich red-pinks. Each spinel possesses its unique charm and appeal.
Strength and Durability:
Spinels are durable gemstones with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. They are suitable for everyday wear and make stunning engagement rings.
The Future of Spinels:
As spinels continue to capture the hearts of gem enthusiasts, their significance in the world of jewellery is on the rise. Whether you’re drawn to their unique colors, sparkle, or historical significance, spinels offer a world of possibilities for jewellery lovers.
Thank you for joining me in this exploration of spinels. If you’re interested in adding a spinel piece to your collection or have any questions, feel free to contact me via social media or via email at workwithme@nicolewinkler.com.
Remember, when it comes to selecting a gemstone, it’s essential to choose one that you truly love.
Stay tuned for more gemstone adventures, and I’ll be sharing photos of spinels and other stones and jewellery in my instagram stories.
