Spinel is a mineral of rare beauty, which is a mixture of magnesium oxide and aluminum. The noble radiance and variety of bright shades have made this stone one of the most beloved and revered in jewelry. Radiating warmth and radiance, spinel attracts happiness and love to its owner, relieves him of illness, protects him from troubles and troubles. Jewelry with this gem can become a powerful amulet, but it will only bring benefits if a person treats it with care and respect.
Black spinel - the beginning of the story
This stone has been known since the 9th century, when, according to historians, spinel was mined only in the Pamirs. The traveler Makro Polo discovered these miners in the 13th century during his travels and bought several kilograms of spinel from them. But at that time there was no science of mineralogy, so Polo mistook the stone for a ruby , since it was the red color of spinel that was most popular at that time. The deposits were called "ruby mines", but in fact it was spinel.
A similar but black mineral was named ceylonite after the place where it was discovered (the island of Ceylon, now Sri Lanka). The discovered samples surprised mineralogists: the spinel crystals had many faces, forming various configurations. That is why the mineral received the second name pleonaste - an ancient Greek word meaning abundance.
The properties and composition of the stones were analyzed several centuries later. Scientists have identified a separate class of minerals that have come to be considered rare stones. The value of the stone was equal to emeralds and sapphires. In addition, spinel was used as a symbol of power, it was decorated with the crown of Catherine the Great and the famous Monomakh cap in Kievan Rus.
This stone is also known as lalum, cellonite and picotite. The black variety was discovered at the end of the 19th century, so it is valued even more than other varieties of spinel. Even today, this mineral can be found in jewelry on the same list as diamonds and pearls.
Varieties and colors
There are many varieties of spinel. Not all of them are considered noble stones of interest to jewelers. The value is determined by the play of light and transparency, but the most important criterion is the shade.
Classification
- The pure rock is pale pink, more like a diamond. Although such a gem belongs to precious rocks, it is still valued lower than varieties with a more saturated shade.
- Red spinel. Also called ruby, it is similar to this mineral not only in appearance, but also in chromium impurities. This is a fairly expensive breed. One carat of such a gem can cost up to a thousand dollars.
- Bale ruby is a red variety with a purple tint. Manganese ions give it this color. The record specimen of Lala discovered in Tajikistan belonged to this species.
- Almadine spinel is a relative of bale, also lilac, but with a thicker shade.
- Rubicell is a reddish-orange stone with iron impurities.
- Sapphire is a blue or dark blue spinel that miners come across extremely rarely. The cost of such crystals is only slightly lower than that of ruby ones.
- Chlorospinel is a green mineral with chlorine impurities; the only deposit is located in Yakutia, on the banks of the Kamenka River.
- Ceylonite, or pleonaste, is a brown or black spinel, the most common in nature. Does not apply to precious stones. Rich deposits of this mineral are located in Australia and Yakutia, as well as on the island of Sri Lanka and India.
Noble spinel - physical and chemical properties
Spinel is a fairly hard gemstone, but it is also very fragile. It melts at a temperature of 2135 degrees, and heating to 900 degrees causes a random arrangement of atoms of the main elements, aluminum and magnesium. Noble (pure) varieties are colorless, but some impurities can give the gemstone color.
Pleochroism is observed at different light intensities and directions of the light beam. Some crystals are characterized by asterism, i.e. Due to the arrangement of inclusions along the axis of internal ordering, a star effect appears on the stone.
- Formula MgAl2O4
- Color. Depending on the content of impurities, the stone can be red, blue, light blue, yellow, orange, lilac-violet, pink, black, green, colorless and multi-colored.
- Possible impurities: titanium, iron, zinc, manganese, calcium, chlorine, chromium
- Hardness 7.5-8
- Transparency. Transparent, translucent
- Imperfect cleavage
- Strength. Fragile
- Molecular weight 142.27
- Density 3.57-3.72 g/cm3
- Melting point 2135 degrees
Spinel - a precious stone
It is often compared to a ruby, which is not at all surprising, since it is almost impossible to distinguish them from each other without special training. Its rarity, hardness, magnificent shine and excellent glow after cutting leave neither jewelers nor ordinary people indifferent. We are talking about spinel - a precious mineral that will never lose value.
History of spinel stone
The name of the mineral goes back to the Latin word “spinella”, which means “thorn” or “thorn” and indicates the pointed appearance of the crystals. In the old days, spinel was called “carbuncles”, and the designation “lal” was also popular. Spinel was first mentioned in documents from the 9th century, which mentioned the mining of this stone in Palmyra. The following trace was found in the notes of Marcus Polo, 18th century.
Spinel adorns a number of royal regalia. For example, the legendary Great Imperial Crown, which was worn by all Russian monarchs from 1762 to 1917. Spinel also shines on the crown of English monarchs, which you will learn about in our article below.
Physical and chemical properties
Mohs hardness: 7,5 — 8
Density: 3.72 g/cm³
Color: yellow, green, blue, red, pink, purple, white (colorless)
Gloss: glass
Refractive index: 1,71 — 1,76
Syngony: cubic
Optical character: isotropic
Cleavage: imperfect
Spinel is magnesium aluminate, a product of the interaction of magnesium oxide and aluminum oxide.
Important criteria for assessing the jewelry quality of spinel are its transparency and the strength of the play of light in the stone. However, the greatest value of this mineral is given by its noble shade.
Spinel, depending on its color, may have the following names:
- ceylonite / ordinary spinel - has a dark color, black, green or brown;
- picotite / chrome spinel – exclusively black;
- chlorspinel – bright green;
- Severik - from purple to blue-gray.
Transparent crystals, which are the most sought after, are called noble spinel; it also has names based on colors:
- ruby spinel – ruby red color;
- rubicella - has an orange-red hue;
- ruby-bale - a rare pink color;
- oriental amethyst - a bright purple hue;
- sapphire-spinel – painted sapphire blue.
Spinel sapphire can have the so-called “Alexandrite effect” , in which changing natural light to artificial light changes the perception of the color of the stone: from blue it turns into purple-violet.
Ruby spinel
It is worth mentioning separately about ruby spinel, which is the most expensive on the jewelry market: its cost varies from $20,000 to $50,000 per carat. The first information about a stone similar to a ruby is found in documents of the 10th century, but since then the trace of the red mineral has been lost: there is no mention of it either in the Bible, or in the Koran (the most important historical sources), or in the works of philosophers. Until the mid-19th century, the red variety of spinel was not distinguished from ruby. It was then that it became known that the “Black Prince” (“ruby” in the crown of the British Empire) was a different mineral.
The "Black Prince" belonged to Prince Edward of Wales, who credited the stone for all his battles. That is why Henry V, who received the pseudoruby after the death of Edward, considered it his talisman. And this was not a simple superstition; the stone really saved the owner’s life. The fact is that Henry turned the spinel into a decoration for his helmet, and in one of the battles, when a sword fell on the king’s head, the red gem took the entire blow. The stone was eventually placed in the center of the ruler's crown.
Where is spinel mined?
Only a few deposits give the world gem-quality spinel. It is noteworthy that spinel deposits are accompanied by rubies, which previously created even greater confusion in establishing the differences between these two stones.
The best specimens of red spinel are mined in Myanmar and Tanzania, while Tanzania is the absolute leader in the extraction of this unique stone - the largest and brightest nuggets are found here.
Spinel from Myanmar
Myanmar brings to the world not only rubies of the highest quality, but also spinel, which occurs here in the form of excellent octahedra. Miners find not only bright red, but also orange, pink, blue and purple specimens in local lands.
Spinel with o. Sri Lanka
It is rare to find dark and brownish green stones in Sri Lanka, but spinel of other colors is abundant here. Blue, purple, pink and red Ceylon designs enchant jewelry lovers around the world. Black spinel is also found on the island.
Spinel of Thailand and Cambodia
It makes sense to talk about alluvial spinel deposits in Thailand and Cambodia at the same time, since the countries are located only 817 km from each other and the quality of the mined stones is identical.
It is worth noting that spinel from Thailand and Cambodia is mined as a secondary product during the search for sapphires, because the quality of this type of nugget is not always impressive, although there are exceptions.
Spinel from Tanzania
In Tanzania, at the Mahenge deposit, truly unique spinels of a bright pink hue are mined. It is the color that is the hallmark of nuggets from this region.
“Neon pink”, “vivid pink” and “hot pink” – pink spinel from Tanzania is most often sold under these trade names. These large stones leave no one indifferent, as they are the standard of the highest quality and beauty of spinel.
How to distinguish artificial spinel
In laboratory conditions, specialists have learned to create almost any minerals, and spinel is no exception. The physical and chemical properties of natural and artificial stone will be almost identical, so only professionals can reliably distinguish gems from each other.
Despite the fact that chemistry and physics indicate an almost complete similarity of stones, the jewelry market remains categorical: artificial gems fall in price, but natural ones become more expensive over time, and all because of the difference in origin. The fact is that it will not be difficult to make an artificial stone even after 200 years, but it will no longer be possible to extract natural spinel when its reserves in the ground dry up. Naturalness guarantees exclusivity, which cannot be said about laboratory minerals.
There are a couple of simple techniques you can use to try to determine the origin of a stone. Take a magnifying glass and look deep into the spinel: the natural stone will be slightly cloudy and contain small particles of various impurities. Laboratory specimens, as a rule, are almost perfectly transparent, and the only impurities in them are gas bubbles.
People say that if you put natural spinel at the bottom of a glass vessel, it will glow red. But this method also cannot be considered accurate; to check the authenticity and origin, it is better to contact a gemological center.
Magical and healing properties
Experts in treating diseases with the help of stones claim that spinel helps with infectious diseases and stomach diseases, and also has a positive effect on men's health and improves vision.
Spinel strengthens the immune system and makes the heart more resilient. According to ancient belief, this stone saves from thirst, so it was especially valued by travelers.
Perhaps it is precisely for its ability to quench thirst that spinel is considered a talisman for all travelers, so it is useful to carry this mineral during business trips and long trips. In the East they believe that jewelry with spinel helps attract love, and in Europe it is credited with the ability to preserve the youth and beauty of the owner.
The index finger is best suited for wearing jewelry with spinel, even better - in a gold frame, so its magical properties are only enhanced. Color also matters in the case of black spinel - this type of stone accumulates the owner’s vital energy and releases it in case of deficiency and loss of strength.
Compatibility by zodiac sign
If we talk about zodiac compatibility, then spinel is ideal for Leos. Although this stone will establish a favorable tandem with the energy of other fire signs: Aries, Sagittarius.
Water signs - Pisces, Cancers and Scorpios - can wear spinel, but it will not become a strong amulet for them.
Astrologers say that spinel can be worn by all representatives of the zodiac circle, but only representatives of fire signs can expect a strong effect. With other people, the mineral will seek a common language depending on the aura - if the mineral resonates with your energy field, then in any case it will have a positive impact on you.
The uniqueness of spinel inspires jewelers to create products in classic and fantasy designs, which always amaze jewelry connoisseurs on the spot. Are you ready to experience the unprecedented beauty of spinel? Go to the Maxim Demidov catalog and appreciate with your own eyes the fantastic embodiments of our jewelers’ plans.
Spinel colors and varieties
There are several varieties of spinel that are associated with similar colored gemstones.
Precious colorless spinel
The stone can be completely transparent or slightly white. It is similar to a diamond, but when cut, its shine is more meager.
Ruby (red) spinel
It has a rich red color, sometimes darker than ruby, which is explained by the admixture of chromium. This is the most valuable and expensive stone, its price ranges from 600 to 1000 dollars per carat.
Sapphire (blue) spinel
It may have a blue and blue tint. The appearance of the stone resembles a sapphire. It ranks second in value and merit because it is rarely found in nature.
Spinel Bale ruby (pink)
Due to manganese impurities, it has a pinkish-red color. The largest gem of this type was found in 1951. This happened in the Pamirs, and his weight was more than 5 kilograms.
Spinel almadine (purple)
Rubicel Spinel (yellow and orange)
Due to varying amounts of iron impurities, it can be yellow, orange, or orange-red in color.
Ganospinel (blue)
The stone has a pure blue color, sometimes with a hint of purple.
Chlorospinel (emerald green)
Due to the high chlorine content, spinel has a rich green color. Often associated with emerald.
Hercynite, picotite, pleonast (black spinel)
Black varieties of spinel include hercynite and picotite. The former has a deep black color with a dark green tint caused by replacing iron with magnesium.
The latter received a black color, replacing part of the aluminum with chrome.
Another variety of black spinel is pleonast (ordinary spinel), but it is not always black, it can also be dirty green or brown.
Place of Birth
Most of the specimens of this mineral are of no value to mineralogists, and some are suitable due to their characteristics for industrial purposes.
Crystals of noble spinel, suitable for jewelry, are usually small in size - 10-12 carats (about 2 grams) .
The largest single crystal of pink spinel was found in Badakhshan (Tajikistan). The weight of this lala is 5.885 kg .
Only thanks to geologist Ya. A. Gurevich, who carefully processed a suspicious area in the adit and peeled out this unique nugget, the miracle crystal was not destroyed during blasting.
Spinel is mined in Austria, Afghanistan, India, and Madagascar.
The largest deposits are located in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Cambodia.
It is noteworthy that in each country stones of certain shades are mined. For example, in Australia, black spinel is mainly mined; blue crystals are often found in Sri Lanka.
In Russia (in the Urals) green and blue spinel are mined.
Red spinel is a very rare and most valuable species. It is mined in Myenma (Mogok deposit) and in the Pamirs (Tajik Kuhilal deposit). The red variety is often accompanied by rubies in deposits. They are mined together to avoid future errors in identification. After cutting, these gems can only be distinguished using special equipment.
Using black spinel
Spinel is most often used as an inlay in jewelry. Most often, stones have a cut:
- glass;
- diamond;
- Cabochon shaped.
This mineral is easy to process and therefore belongs to the category of ornamental stones. Dishes, containers and souvenirs made from this stone are not uncommon.
Best time to buy
It is recommended to buy jewelry made from noble spinel on a properly selected lunar day, that is, when the energy of the gem is the lowest. It’s good if on this day you are given a stone as a gift or if it is inherited.
It is better to bring spinel home on the first or second day of the lunar calendar . And to attach (that is, put on for the first time) - on the sixteenth lunar day . During this period, she will get used to the new place.
You should not get carried away with purchasing antique jewelry, since it is unknown what energy they absorbed while passing from hand to hand.
Black spinel jewelry crystals
Spinel stone is easy to cut, but experts and masons have mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, this stone is no worse than any other precious or ornamental stone. However, its gloomy color turns many people off. The fact that it was previously used for mourning jewelry also did not make it popular. Although the association “grief is black” is more accepted in Western civilization.
Like any other gemstone, large specimens of this variety are rare, but are nevertheless prized by jewelers and connoisseurs.
Opaque chrome spinel is considered an ornamental stone. It is often confused with sapphire or garnet of the same color. It is usually used to make beads or bracelets. More often it is used as an insert in jewelry. The presented black spinel beads do not cost an exorbitant five to twelve thousand rubles.
Spinel can be distinguished from other gemstones of similar color and texture by its lack of birefringence.
Jewelers believe that the most suitable types of cuts for this stone are step, diamond, or a combination of both. Samples with the asterism effect are cabochon cut. A remarkable feature of this mineral is that polished stones can seem to glow in the twilight.
History of the stone
What is spinel?
This is the name given to a beautiful stone similar to a ruby, the crystals of which are pointed like thorns. Spina is Latin for "spike", from which the German word Spinell may have been derived. There is another interpretation of the origin of the name - from the Greek word “spinos” (“to shine”). After cutting, the mineral casts bright reflections. This gem has been mined for a long time, but the first written information about it appeared only in the 13th century thanks to the famous traveler Marco Polo. He described in detail the stone and the conditions of its extraction in the Pamir Mountains, said that the deposits have been developed since the 9th century , but called them “ruby mines”, since spinel is very similar to ruby.
During the time that this mineral has been known to people, it has received various names from them:
- lal (lall);
- coelonite;
- picotite;
- Rubicel.
This gem is very difficult to visually distinguish from other gemstones due to its beauty, color saturation, transparency and hardness. This has only recently become possible thanks to advances in technology and chemical analysis. Only a century and a half ago, the mineral received its official name and deserved place among stones.
It turned out that many samples of rubies stored in collections, museums, and treasuries of rulers are not rubies, but spinels.
The large rubies on the royal and royal crowns also turned out to be fake. Large gems were chosen for them, and real rubies are rarely of this size.
After careful examination in the early 20th century , one of the greatest British Crown Jewels, the Black Prince's Ruby, was found to be a fine example of 170-carat spinel.
“Timur’s Ruby,” now owned by the British crown, is also an “imposter” spinel weighing 361 carats .
This gem was also considered a ruby in the crown of the Russian Empress Catherine II. The weight of the stone is 398.72 carats . The crown of Catherine the Great, a true work of jewelry art, now adorns the Diamond Fund of Russia.
The largest “ruby”, which turned out to be a noble spinel, shines on the crown of the Persian Shahs. This 500-carat luxury stone was once a treasure of the Mughal Empire.
Many royal and royal regalia are decorated with these beautiful gems, including the Monomakh Cap (on it, along with a ruby and other precious stones, three spinel stones shine).
Synthetic spinel
Since the beginning of the last century, synthetic black spinel has appeared on the jewelry market. It is produced in sufficient quantities, but it is almost impossible to find the stone on sale in its pure form. This material is primarily used as a support for duplicating soft, fracture-prone gemstones such as ammolite or thin-film opal.
It is generally accepted that pure black stones do not exist in nature; there is always some second color in the mineral, almost indistinguishable, usually green or orange-brown.
Sometimes the opposite happens: the blue or green sample is initially so dark that the black wins out, and its shade is noticeable only on thin sections. This “illumination” can be magnetite microfossils, which are visible only under a powerful microscope with good lighting.
The healing properties of spinel stones
The beneficial properties of the mineral are well known. They have been known for many centuries. The healer Paracelsus described the healing properties of spinel. He used its powder for various diseases.
Lithotherapists provide evidence of the healing value of this stone. Black spinel powder has a beneficial effect on health. The mineral is characterized by restorative properties, treats various skin diseases, relieves pain in joints and muscles. If you wear the stone regularly, the condition of your eyes will improve. It is effective for myopia.
In many ways, the medicinal properties of spinel depend on its shade. Red minerals normalize blood circulation and strengthen the immune system. They are very useful when the patient is paralyzed. In Eastern medicine, the red gemstone has been used to stimulate sexual desire and enhance desire. Magicians created amulets from spinel to increase male strength. For this reason, products made from it should not be worn by teenagers. Then their feelings will not be heightened.
The green mineral treats headaches, migraines and joint problems. It should be bought by people who have problems with the circulatory system. Spinel also improves metabolism and stabilizes blood pressure. Green stone is useful for eye diseases.
Pink spinel calms the nervous system, helps with dermatological diseases and relieves insomnia.
The blue mineral treats diseases of the digestive tract, liver, kidneys, endocrine system and lungs.
Black stone relieves pain from wounds and bruises. It improves low blood pressure and improves well-being. Black spinel powder is also believed to have hemostatic properties.
Medicinal properties
Are common
The healing properties of spinel were first described by the scientist and healer Paracelsus in the mid-16th century . The scientist believed that it was important for humans, for their health, and used the powder obtained by grinding this mineral to treat many diseases.
In ancient times, such powder was considered an effective healing substance. It was used as an antiseptic, hemostatic and wound healing agent. In the Far East, powder from this stone continues to be used in our time.
Modern lithotherapists recognize spinel as having a general strengthening, immunostimulating effect on the human body.
When carrying out treatment with the help of a stone, you cannot refuse medications and procedures recommended by your doctor.
It is believed that the healing effect largely depends on the color of the stone.
Color Specialization
Medicinal properties of spinel color varieties:
- Red - helps improve blood circulation and boost immunity.
- Blue - normalizes the functioning of internal organs, has a positive effect on the entire body, including skin and hair.
According to lithotherapists and magicians, it is red and blue spinel that have the most healing and magical properties.
- Pink - calms the nerves, useful for skin diseases. If you place it near the bed, your sleep will be deep and restful.
- Green - helps get rid of headaches and joint pain. If you periodically look at it for 15–20 minutes , your vision will improve.
- Black - an assistant in the treatment of bruises and wounds (reduces pain and bleeding) and a reliever of joint and spinal pain in older people.
If you abuse the help of spinel and wear it without a break, your metabolism may be disrupted.
Spinel - magical properties
Compared to other minerals, this gemstone has strong esoteric properties. The magical properties of spinel guide you on the right path and give you the strength to start over. However, the power of the mineral manifests itself only in people with good and sincere intentions. Spinel will give its owner happiness and love. Thanks to spinel, you can make plans, develop the talent of clairvoyance and learn the secrets of future events.
The magical properties of spinel stones will not be revealed to greedy, evil and insincere people. If they have bad intentions, they should not use the mineral. Otherwise it will harm them.
Spinel has an energetic connection with Venus, the Sun and Jupiter. This is the reason for its perishability. Sometimes he works to the limit of his capabilities, and sometimes he demonstrates only a small part of his strength. For this reason, the owner of this stone feels its impermanence.
The special properties of spinel are doubled in a gold setting. In Eastern culture, it is recommended to wear it to increase the sexual energy of lovers. Jewelry made from this mineral restores human strength. Earrings or bracelets made from it help the fair sex to find a suitable partner and improve the quality of their personal lives.
Black spinel - who suits your zodiac sign
The mineral has numerous healing and magical properties. This can help relieve loneliness. People can find love and joy through spinel. However, keep in mind that this stone has a complex and capricious character. Experts recommend wearing it more often, in which case its effect will be even stronger.
Spinel should be worn in the form of earrings and rings. It is important that the ring is worn on the middle or index finger of the left hand. Then the mineral will show its special properties in the most effective and efficient way.
Which zodiac sign goes well with spinel stone? The gemstone highlights Leo . But it is also worth purchasing for other representatives of the fire element. This is favorable for Aries and Sagittarius , the mineral improves intelligence and strengthens the physical condition of its owner.
The properties of spinel are manifested in such zodiac signs as Taurus and Libra . The gem improves their health. Has a positive effect on Pisces . The mineral replenishes their energy reserves. This is very important for people whose professional activities involve regular business trips and making fundamental decisions.
Compatibility with other stones
What stones can spinel be combined with in jewelry? The answer to this question is as ambiguous as the nature of this stone.
On the one hand, spinel is a very capricious and capricious mineral, a typical individualist, so it is not recommended to wear it with other gems.
On the other hand, this stone, which belongs to the element of Fire, should go well with Air minerals. Stones of these elements usually get along well with each other, mutually reinforcing their properties. So, theoretically, spinels are suitable, for example, for the following jewelry stones:
- amethyst;
- topaz;
- sapphire;
- rhinestone;
- rose quartz;
- tourmaline;
- golden beryl.
But if you want to protect yourself from possible harm, it is better not to wear spinel with other stones - this is the opinion of some astrologers.
Talismans and amulets
A talisman made from this mineral will be very useful for those who take responsibility for making important decisions, as well as for those who travel. Spinel helps in achieving goals. It gives a person the strength to overcome all the difficulties that arise on his way. Spinel increases the attractiveness of the person wearing it in the eyes of the opposite sex. Therefore, it can be used to find a soul mate and create a strong family. This mineral should not be worn by people with bad intentions. In this case, the stone will only bring misfortune and bad luck to the owner.
The magic of black spinel
The black variety of spinel is called pleonast and differs from other gemstones in its variety of crystal forms. Despite its amazing deep color, black stone is not very popular among jewelers as it gives the finished product a dark, depressing aesthetic.
It is believed that the magical vibrations of the black crystal collect the life forces of the owner and return them when necessary, replenishing the energy deficit.
Black jewelry given as a gift can be very dangerous, as it can become a channel for casting spells. A faceted earth-colored stone has a calming effect on the psyche, balances emotions, helps to focus attention and strengthens willpower.
Transparent black spinel captivates with the shimmering brilliance of its facets, refracting light and giving inspiration to sensitive, creative people. Poetic works with a touch of depressive emotions glorify black crystal rosaries, evoking meditative moods with their brilliance.
How to distinguish natural stone from fake?
Black spinel is considered an inexpensive variety, unlike blue or red. This is why counterfeits rarely appear on store shelves. Imitation of black spinel is most often represented by onyx, glass or synthetic stone.
There are some subtleties that will help you distinguish a fake from a natural stone:
- Organic faceted gemstones glow in the dark.
- The fake mineral heats up quickly in the hand; Natural spinel takes a long time to heat up.
- Pay attention to the price. A fake is always cheaper than a genuine gemstone.
Self-testing of natural stones
Natural spinel is difficult to visually distinguish from a fake, but there are several manipulations that can “direct” the research in the right direction.
It is important to examine the stone closely, as small examples with a cloudy texture and set in precious metals are most likely genuine. Pristine purity and uniform transparency are signs of imitation (fake).
If you use a magnifying glass, you can see the uneven distribution of color and the presence of inclusions, confirming the natural origin of the stone.
Spinel care
Spinel is a very delicate stone that requires a lot of attention and care.
- Store separately in a box (preferably with a soft inner lining).
- Take pictures during physical activity and housework.
- Avoid falls and impacts.
- Avoid contact with aggressive chemical media.
- Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water every 3-5 months.
Spinel is undemanding in terms of cleaning and restoring shine. It should be cleaned no more than three, maximum four times a year. Use a mild soap solution, a soft sponge and plenty of clean running water. In the dark, the stone “rests” and is energetically “renewed”.
Stone cost
The size and number of gems, as well as the metal with which they are set, determine the price of spinel. The gem itself, in its most expensive variety, costs between $1,000 and $2,000 per carat. Black spinel jewelry can be found at:
- necklace: 2000-4000 rubles;
- faceted beads: 1500-5000 rubles;
- bracelet: 900-1000 rub;
- silver, gold ring for about 5,000 rubles.
Black spinel is a mysterious gemstone with a deep hue. It has powerful energy and is considered a good talisman and amulet that can change the life of its owner for the better. Jewelry with this stone looks noble and stylish, which adds charm and attractiveness to its owner.
Spinel price per 1 carat
Jewelers call specimens that are precious and semi-precious stones noble spinel. Its price is influenced by the following factors:
- color is the main criterion;
- uniformity;
- purity;
- transparency;
- weight (price per 1 carat increases with the size of the specimen);
- treatment;
- historical value of the sample.
The most expensive noble spinels are bright red and deep blue, and the cheapest are gray and blue-gray.
Market value per 1 carat:
- ganospinel (gray-blue variety) - from $25 ;
- high-quality stones of other bright colors - from $100 to $300 ;
- sapphire and ruby spinel - from $500 to $1000 .
Synthetic spinel is inexpensive - jewelry with inserts of small artificial grains can be bought for 2000–3000 rubles .
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