Spinel is one of the most underrated gemstones in the world of jewelry – and one of the most fascinating. With its intense color palette, impressive clarity and royal past, spinel is reclaiming its place as a favorite among designers and collectors alike.🔮 What is spinel?
Spinel is a natural gemstone that forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is composed of magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄) and crystallizes in beautiful, well-defined octahedral shapes. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, it is both durable and suitable for everyday use in rings, pendants and earrings2.
🎨 Colors that enchant
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors:
Deep red and ruby red
Hot pink and lavender
Cobalt blue and gray
Orange and violet
The wide color variation is due to traces of chromium, iron and cobalt in the crystal structure. Cobalt blue spinel in particular is rare and sought after for its electric glow.
👑 A Royal Confusion
For centuries, spinel was mistaken for ruby – and many of the “rubies” in European crown jewels are actually spinel. The famous Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown is a 170-carat red spinel, and the 352-carat Timur Ruby is also a spinel, engraved with the names of Mughal emperors.
🌱 Natural and untreated
Unlike many gemstones, spinel is typically untreated, making it attractive to those seeking natural and authentic jewelry. Its high clarity and brilliance make it an obvious choice for modern, minimalist designs
✨ Spinel at Scandinavian Gem Design
We use spinel in select jewelry, where its deep colors and natural luster are allowed to take center stage. Each stone is carefully selected for its quality and character – and set in sterling silver or gold with Scandinavian elegance.
Are you ready to wear a gemstone with history, strength and style? Explore our spinel jewelry and find your next favorite piece.
