A rough pink spinel crystal on black, with more crystals out of focus behind it.

Spinel

What is Spinel?

From the depths of the East Africa Belt, Spinels emerge, dazzling the world with their beauty and durability.

Royalty and nobility were captivated by the exquisite precious stones, often mistaken for rubies due to their magnificent hue.

What Makes a Spinel?

Spinel (MgAl2O4)

A mineral of magnesium, aluminium and oxygen.

Chromium & Iron

Their neon-like glow, a result of the presence of chromium and iron, sets them apart from other Spinels…

The Octahedron

…and its characteristic octahedron shape is reminiscent of two pyramids fused.

Eight rough pink spinel crystals scattered on a white table.
Rough pink spinel

What is Inside a Spinel?

Rough pink spinel crystals on black, lit so they glow from within.

Pink Spinels are very scarce and have a breathtaking appearance.

Vibrant pastel pinks with a touch of fuchsia, which is due to their single refractivity and exceptional transparency.

The Qualities of Spinel

Colour

Spinels come in a variety of colors such as red, pink, blue, and black.

Natural

Spinels require no artificial enhancements or treatments, allowing their natural beauty to shine through.

Toughness

Measuring an 8 on the Mohs scale, it is an ideal choice for jewelry pieces that can withstand wear and tear.

Mistaken for a Ruby

Rough pink spinel crystals on white, the nearest in sharp focus.

352

Carats, British Crown Jewels

The Q8 ruby in the British Crown Jewels is a spinel that weighs a staggering 352 carats and was given as a gift by the King of Spain during the 14th century.

Five rough pink spinel crystals casting soft shadows on white.
A single rough pink spinel on black, reflected in the surface beneath it.

Legend & Lore

Spinels have been revered for their perceived healing properties and their beauty that continues to mesmerize people to this day.

  1. 01

    Spinels have a crystal structure that resembles a thorn on a rose, and because of this, they were thought to protect from evil spirits and fire.

  2. 02

    As one of the birthstones for August, Spinels symbolize strength and protection. It is believed that this stone can assist individuals in recognizing their purpose in life and provide them with the necessary vitality to live a fulfilling life.

  3. 03

    Legends suggest that spinel can reduce stress and anxiety and inspire innovative thinking, allowing individuals to overcome obstacles and demonstrate resilience.

Spinel in High Jewellery

Ember earrings: cascades of pink spinel discs and diamonds.

Pink spinel discs

Ember

Discover the piece Samaah: a fringed diamond collar centred on a heart-cut pink spinel.

Heart-cut spinel

Samaah

Discover the piece Shamsa: a pink spinel set in a sunburst of yellow gold and diamonds.

Spinel cabochon

Shamsa

Discover the piece Celestine earrings: diamond flowers centred on aquamarine and pink spinel.

Spinel & aquamarine

Celestine

Discover the piece

Did You Know?

  • The 352-carat “ruby” in the British Crown Jewels is a spinel
  • Spinel is one of the birthstones for August
  • Its crystal was said to resemble a thorn on a rose
A rough pink spinel crystal on white.
  • Spinel measures 8 on the Mohs scale
  • Spinels need no treatment or enhancement
  • Mahenge spinels of Tanzania glow neon from chromium and iron
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