What does noble spinel look like?

Spinel is a semi-precious mineral with an impressive range of shades. The value of some stones is commensurate with rubies and sapphires – precious stones. The variety of shades allows a person to find his mineral, and the unique properties of spinel make it an ideal inlay for a jewelry talisman. What is the peculiarity of the mineral and what varieties there are, let’s look at it today.

What is spinel: stone and its properties

Spinel is a mineral that does not belong to any category of semi-precious stones, because it forms its own. Spinel, translated from the Latin term “spinella”, means “thorn, thorn”. A completely logical question may arise: why does a beautiful stone have such a name? The point is that previously everyone named a mineral based on the associations that arose due to its visual characteristics. Natural crystal has a pointed crystal shape. This is what gave rise to the term we know today. But despite the rather aggressive connotation of the name, this is a fragile stone that needs to be used carefully. The natural group of stones attracts attention with a variety of colors: all shades of red are found, as well as samples of green, blue, and black. The transparency of the mineral varies: from completely transparent to saturated. It is often found in a regular geometric shape. The most common variant of the octahedron is a polyhedron with eight faces. There is also artificial spinel, which is created in the laboratory. For this purpose, fusion and sintering are used.

Spinel: application and deposits

Spinel was found by accident. In the 13th century, during a research expedition to the Pamir Mountains, Marco Polo discovered the first deposit of stone. Its name “Kukhilale” and the deposit are known even in our time. The mineral was highly appreciated by jewelry masters and was often used for inlaying jewelry and decor. Thus, the gem was inlaid into the crowns of the emperors of Great Britain, Germany, France and Russia. But spinel was encountered even earlier, although without any mention of its use. The source, from the 9th century BC, mentions the extraction of the mineral in the Pamirs. At that time, the gem was called “lal”; this name was also popular in Ancient Rus’. The Slavs did not use the stone for jewelry or decoration for a long time, but they paid attention to the healing properties of the mineral. Spinel has long been mistaken for ruby ​​because they have similar colors and often share the same deposits. Based on visual characteristics, without studying these two stones “under a microscope”, it is almost impossible to distinguish. Determining the level of hardness, isotropy, and specific gravity ratio – this became possible only in the 20th century with the help of gemological research methods. After studying, spinel began to be classified as an independent group of minerals, which corresponds to its physical and chemical characteristics. Despite the fact that the gem belongs to a separate group of minerals, its deposits are rarely independent. Spinel is formed in placers that are located next to rubies. After extraction, before processing and delivery to the market, minerals from one deposit are separated by color and transparency. The Kukhilale deposit, mentioned earlier, in the Pamirs, is considered the oldest and the only one where rare specimens of pink spinel are mined. On the island of Sri Lanka there is a deposit of the cobalt variety. Red spinel is native to the Mogok region of Myanmar. There are also other countries where the mineral is mined: Thailand, Brazil, India, Russia (in the Southern Urals), Afghanistan and others. Depending on the rarity and value of the mineral, natural stone is used in jewelry and decorative arts, and artificial samples are widely used to create durable ceramic paints.

Noble and artificial spinel: how to distinguish?

As mentioned above, distinguishing a spinel gemstone from an imitation requires modern technology. A person will not be able to independently identify a fake from a natural mineral. But the cost of the stone can be a clue for you. The price for a carat of noble spinel starts at $20. If it is a mineral with a good grade of purity and clarity, then the cost will be even higher. For example, a sample of blue spinel can cost from $300 or more. Only a specialist can determine the authenticity of the mineral. If you have any doubts or suspicions, we recommend that you contact a jewelry workshop or go to an appraiser.

Varieties and colors of spinel

Spinel in nature exists in all the colors of the rainbow and even more: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, pink, gray, black. Completely colorless specimens are also found. Each shade of gem is characterized in its own way and has its own symbolism. The color of spinel stone is different, depending on the admixtures of the components in the composition, and therefore has different effects on the body.

Red spinel

Red spinel is considered the most expensive on the market, and accordingly the price tag is often high: from 20 to 50 thousand dollars per carat. This type of spinel stone is mentioned in various literary works under the name “lal”. This is the most common variety and is easily recognized, but is also easily confused with the scarlet ruby ​​due to its visual similarity. Coloring occurs due to the presence of chromium in the structure. That is why the red mineral is sometimes called ruby ​​or chrome. Red spinel crystal comes in different intensities: from translucent red to such a concentrated shade that the red appears almost black. The crystal may also have additional reflections of purple, brown and orange. But the more tint refractions in the structure of a mineral, the less it costs. The most valuable specimens are pure red stone with high and medium saturation.

Pink spinel

Pink spinel is considered a worthy option for inlaying world-class jewelry. For example, silver earrings with pink spinel are the epitome of decadence. Pink stones are mined in the Pamirs, Tajikistan. Specimens of Pamir pink spinel are popular for their purity of color, without any extraneous tones. This mineral is valued because of its resemblance to a pink diamond. The undertones of the shades are very similar: dim, but not faded and quite cool. Other deposits of pink stone are known in the world: Burma, Vietnam, Tanzania. The specimens from the latter location have a variegated neon red-pink color. Gems from Tanzania are valued at a high level; sometimes, due to their richness, they can be confused with synthetic samples. The situation is completely different with gems from other places that have additional purple or orange hues, because they are valued much cheaper.

Orange spinel

Orange spinel is rarely found in nature in a pure shade. More often, a shade of orange can be seen in the iridescence of a red, pink or yellow gem. Orange spinel may also be referred to as “rubicell”, but this name is usually used exclusively in documentation. Rubicelle looks especially good when combined with gold. Aurum is a status classic, so in a duet with a mineral of this shade, the jewelry takes on a new and fresh look. When cut, rubicella looks juicy, due to the fact that the appearance is not dark, it can even acquire neon notes.

Green spinel

Green spinel has been little studied due to its rarity. The range of shades ranges from bright green to dark, almost emerald green. The green group of minerals has a muted, gray undertone characteristic, even in bright neon minerals. The structure of the gem contains chlorine, which is why the name chlorospinel is mentioned.

blue spinel

Blue spinel is one of the rare and valuable species. The shade of the gem is caused by the presence of cobalt in the composition, which is why cobalt spinel is its second name. The names “ganit” or ganospinel are also found. The gem exists not only in deep shades of blue, but you can also see jewelry with a natural stone in a neon shade. A deep blue mineral looks very beautiful and costs less, but translucent samples with light structures are more valuable.

Black spinel

If you might be scared by the fact of the high price tag for red and pink spinel, then the black variety or ceylonite is a completely different story. It is inexpensive and is used for jewelry or in combination with silver. Ceylonite in silver jewelry will be a universal option for everyone. Silver is a hypoallergenic metal that does not cause skin reactions, unlike gold. In addition, silver jewelry with ceylonite looks worthy both as a gift to a loved one and as a basic capsule for every day. The black crystal will catch and hold the eye, because its cut is similar to a black diamond. Shades of ceylonite can be either rich, bluish black, or lighter, gray with a translucent structure.

Spinel: magical properties

Initially, it must be said that only jewelry with natural spinel have magical properties. Its synthetic analogues look beautiful in jewelry, but they do not carry energy. Natural spinel and its properties are mentioned in ancient Vedic records, the diary of Paracelsus and ancient magicians. In modern mineralogy, the gem and its properties are also highly valued. Crystals know how to direct a person’s energy in a positive direction, towards changes in one’s own life and well-being. A person becomes purposeful, sets goals and confidently moves towards them. The natural mineral also awakens the will to live, teaches you to enjoy happy moments and avoid negative thoughts. The gem will help to establish communication with others and build close relationships with loved ones.
There are also different effects on humans, depending on the color of the mineral:

• a pink stone will help a person reveal his sensuality and find a soul mate;
• the green mineral will teach creativity and help you find harmony in yourself;
• Since ancient times, the blue gem has been called the stone of wisdom; it helps to make informed decisions;
• red lal will reveal passion in a person and turn his energy into the implementation of even unusual ideas.

Spinel: healing properties of the mineral

Spinel jewelry can be not only a talisman, but also a source of healing. Even representatives of ancient civilizations believed in the healing properties of the mineral. Modern lithotherapists say that each variety has its own healing properties and capabilities.
The red variety enhances the sexual energy of both men and women. The gem is able to protect the owner from diseases, improves the immune system and improves blood circulation in the body.

Pink crystal not only looks sophisticated and soft, it also has an effect on the body. The mineral will balance the functioning of the nervous system, help make sleep more restful, and relieve nightmares. Regardless of the shade, rubicell can save a person from skin diseases. A pendant with a spinel of this shade is recommended to be worn by people prone to allergic reactions. A bracelet on your left hand will help get rid of the rash.

The green group of crystals can relieve migraines and headaches. Also among a number of special actions, the green gem is considered to have the ability to stabilize the functioning of the cardiovascular system and normalize blood pressure. The green crystal looks attractive for a reason: today lithotherapists recommend fixing your gaze on the stone for 10 minutes. By doing this procedure on a daily basis, you will rest your eyes and restore your visual acuity.

The sacred source “Atharva Veda” contains information about the treatment of respiratory diseases with the cobalt variety. It has the power to improve a person’s speech, to make it purer and full of meaning. Today, experts recommend blue crystal for problems with the digestive system, poor metabolism and eating disorders.
Buddhists highly valued the capabilities of ceylonite. According to their records, it has the power of recovery from severe injuries, which is why it was used during rehabilitation. The crystal is also able to normalize blood pressure, especially if it is hypotension.

Who is spinel stone suitable for?

Spinel will be the best talisman for people born under the sign of Leo. Especially if it is a red or orange sample. If Leo regularly wears rings with spinel, his charm will increase, and good luck will accompany him in all matters.

The mineral is also suitable for Sagittarius and Scorpio, but astromineralogy advises them to choose blue shades. The gem can strengthen physical endurance and develop creativity and intelligence.

Aries and Taurus are known for their stubbornness, but if they wear products with rubicell, it will help them gain flexibility of thinking and teach them to be loyal to their own mistakes. Accessories with chlorospinel will be an excellent talisman for representatives of the Earth element. For Virgos and Capricorns, the stone will give hope and faith in their own strength. It will also help you feel more calm about obstacles.

The only sign to which the gem will be neutral is Gemini. The energy of a particular person is important here. If you feel calm when wearing a piece with spinel, this is your mineral.

It is difficult to find in nature a more wonderful and beautiful red crystal than noble spinel. This vibrant stone exudes warmth and charm with its shimmering light. Spinel will certainly bring love and a happy life to its owner. But you should know that the mineral has a changeable character and requires careful treatment.

Description and history of the stone

Spinel is first order precious stone. It is one of the unusual and rare crystals due to its rich color, brilliance and physical properties.

• Minerals are usually small in size. However, sometimes specimens weighing about a pound and more than a foot long can be found.
• Depending on the transparency, color and location, the stones have various names: noble spinel, lal, rubicel, coelonite, picotite.
• The shine of the crystals is bright glassy.
• Pure stones are transparent and colorless, however, they are rare in nature.
• The red color of the crystals determines the presence of chromium ions. The lilac-red color is due to the presence of manganese, and the yellowish color is due to an admixture of iron.
• Spinel has a hardness of eight on the Mohs scale. This is only two units lower than that of diamond.

A bit of history

• Spinel was first mentioned as a jewelry stone back in the thirteenth century. At that time, these crystals were being mined in the Kuhilale deposit. However, the famous traveler Marco Polo, who visited the Pamirs, mentioned this deposit as “ruby mines.”
• Only in the nineteenth century, thanks to the development of science, it was possible to find out that the stone has physical properties unique to it and is a separate group of minerals. After this, many pieces of jewelry were carefully examined, and it turned out that the stones taken for rubies were actually spinels.
• One of the most famous stones in history is a spinel called “Ruby Black Prince”. ABOUTIt was presented for military valor to the Prince of Aquitaine and Wales by the King of Castile in 1376.
• Since 1415, King Henry V began to own the famous mineral, who always carried the stone with him. During the Hundred Years’ War, in one of the battles, the monarch’s helmet was split by a blow from a sword, but the king did not die. Therefore, it is believed that the “Black Prince” saved his life.
• During the bourgeois revolution, the “Ruby Black Prince” disappeared and returned to the royal family only during the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. Since then, it has adorned the crowns of English monarchs.
• The famous crystal “Ruby of Timur”, which once belonged to the conqueror Tamerlane, weighs three hundred and sixty-one carats.
• In the Louvre in Paris there is a spinel that was used to decorate the crown of French monarchs. The weight of the stone is one hundred and five carats.
• And today the dark red crystal adorning the crown of Catherine the Great is kept in the Diamond Fund of Moscow.

Until recently, all these gems were considered natural rubies, and only with the help of advanced diagnostic methods were scientists able to establish their true origin.

Types of crystals

The stone has a large number of varieties, differing in the degree of transparency and color range.

1. Noble spinel – these are transparent crystals, painted in different beautiful colors:

• ruby stone has rich red shades;
• oriental amethyst – purple;
• ruby-bale – pink;
• rubicella – orange-red;
• sapphire spinel – blue or pale blue.

The main deposits of these stones are India, Borneo and Ceylon.

2. Chrome spinel or picotite is black in color. In this stone, part of the aluminum is replaced by chromium.

3. Ordinary spinel, ceylonite or pleonast is distinguished by a high iron content and has a dark green or dark brown color. In Russia there are many deposits of pleonaste in the Nazyam and Shishim mountains, as well as in the Urals.

4. Ganit or zinc spinel is blue in color, sometimes with a purple tint. In it, magnesium is replaced by zinc and iron.

Spinel stone – healing properties

• The red crystal can support the body during viral diseases, improve blood circulation and stimulate the immune system.
• Even in ancient times, mineral powder was used to treat the stomach and improve complexion.
• It is believed that the stone can cure lower back pain and relieve nightmares.
• Green spinel stabilizes blood pressure and metabolism, helps with eye diseases and joint pain.
• Pink crystal useful for skin diseases. It normalizes sleep and heals nerves.
• Lithotherapists recommend wearing black gemstone for hypotensive patients. It can also reduce bleeding and relieve pain from bruises.
• Blue or dark blue spinel will help with diseases of the lungs, liver and kidneys, and improve the functioning of the endocrine system and gastrointestinal tract.

The stone is quite fragile, so it can be easily turned into powder. Ancient healers used this property of the gem and treated burns and wounds with the powder. Eastern healers use the crystal to treat infectious diseases.

Properties and compatibility with zodiac signs

The strong magical properties of spinel can radically change fate person for the better. True, the stone helps only sincere, kind people who have good intentions.

• The crystal will rejuvenate its owner physically and spiritually, nourish him with energy, help him find friends and bring happiness.
• In the East, red gems are considered sexual stimulants. Therefore, they are recommended to men to increase sexual activity and attract female attention.
• Earrings or rings with a mineral can attract family happiness and love.
• In Europe, an amulet with a crystal was worn for rejuvenation. It was believed that it could extend years of life.
• The overcoat is a talisman for those whose work requires quick decisions and for those who travel a lot.

You cannot constantly wear a talisman. The stone is not only capable of pumping up energy, but also deprive its owner of his powers.

A little astrology

• It is recommended to wear jewelry with spinel as an amulet for Taurus, Pisces and Libra. The stone will attract good luck and favor of the opposite sex into their life. The gem will be especially great support for Pisces women.
• The crystal is most suitable for people born under the sign of Leo. It will improve their intellectual and volitional abilities and give them additional strength and energy.
• It is best for Cancers not to wear jewelry made from these gems. The stone can make people born under this zodiac sign excessively lazy.

Mineral care

When purchasing jewelry with spinel, you must remember that the gem is quite fragile and over time can wear off on the edges. In this regard, it should be handled with care.

• Jewelry with stones is best stored in a box with a soft inner lining.
• Be sure to remove it before performing physical work.
• Wearing jewelry with this crystal daily is not recommended.
• The stone must be protected from falls, impacts and contact with aggressive chemical environments.
• Once every three to five months, the gem should be cleaned with a weak soap solution and a toothbrush.