Spinel has long been admired for its beauty and durability, making it a compelling choice for jewelry and, increasingly, as a birthstone. While often mistaken for other gemstones throughout history, spinel possesses unique qualities that distinguish it as a gemstone in its own right. This article will explore the history, gemological properties, and care of spinel, drawing upon available information to provide a comprehensive overview of this fascinating gem.
History and Lore
Although the provided sources do not detail a long, specific history of spinel, they do highlight its enduring appeal as a gemstone worthy of being treasured and passed down through generations. The sources mention the potential for spinel jewelry to become family heirlooms, suggesting a lasting value and emotional significance. While not explicitly stated as a traditional birthstone in these materials, the discussion of selecting “timeless gifts” implies its suitability for marking significant life events. The sources focus on modern gifting traditions, referencing Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry as a source for high-quality jewelry, including pieces suitable for marking milestones like engagements and new family members.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided materials do not contain information regarding the geological formation or specific mining locations of spinel.
Gemological Properties
Spinel is a remarkably durable gemstone, ranking 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This hardness makes it exceptionally well-suited for everyday wear, particularly in engagement rings, as it can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. This durability is a key factor in its appeal for jewelry intended to be worn frequently and cherished for years to come.
The quality of a spinel is determined by three primary factors: color, clarity, and transparency. Color is considered the most important factor, with increased color saturation generally correlating to higher value. However, overly saturated or opaque colors can decrease the price. The sources provide a specific color grading system for red and blue spinel, outlining distinctions between vivid, deep, medium, purplish, and pinkish shades for red spinel, and cobalt, intense, vivid, deep, and medium shades for blue spinel.
Unlike diamonds, which have a standardized clarity grading system requiring magnification, spinel clarity is assessed by the naked eye. Imperfections visible on the crown (top part of the gemstone) are the primary concern, while those on the pavilion (back side) are not typically considered. Spinel clarity is graded as either “Eye Clean” (100% clean to the eye, but not necessarily under magnification) or with varying degrees of visible inclusions. It is rare to find a spinel without any visible imperfections.
The sources do not provide information on chemical composition, refractive index, or specific gravity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not contain information regarding the symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with spinel.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of spinel jewelry is relatively straightforward. The sources recommend cleaning spinel by submerging it in lukewarm water with mild detergent, using a soft toothbrush to gently clean the underside of the stone. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. For heavily soiled jewelry, the process may need to be repeated.
To prevent scratching, spinel jewelry should be stored individually, away from other pieces. It is also advisable to keep spinel away from heat and direct sunlight. For rings worn daily, a weekly check for loose stones is recommended. This can be done by gently shaking the ring near the ear or tapping it to listen for any rattling, which would indicate a need for tightening by a professional jeweler.
Annual professional maintenance, including tightening and cleaning, is highly recommended to ensure the longevity of spinel jewelry.
Selecting Spinel Jewelry
The sources highlight Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry as a retailer offering a selection of high-quality jewelry, including pieces featuring diamonds. While spinel is not specifically mentioned in relation to Jared’s offerings within these sources, the emphasis on timeless gifts and the availability of custom design services suggest the possibility of sourcing spinel jewelry through this retailer. The sources also mention Le Vian, Ever Us, and Miracle Links as popular brands available at Jared.
The provided information includes details on a 14K Yellow Gold engagement ring featuring a 0.75 ct Marquise Diamond (Style #: 9562891). The ring has a prong setting, SI1 clarity, and G-H color diamonds. The ring weighs 4.26 grams and is available in sizes 3-10. This information, while focused on a diamond ring, illustrates the type of detailed specifications available for jewelry purchases.
Spinel Quality and Pricing
As previously mentioned, the quality of spinel is predicated on color, clarity, and transparency. Pricing is directly correlated to quality, but origin and weight also impact value. The sources provide a detailed color grading system for both red and blue spinel, which is a key factor in determining price.
Conclusion
Spinel is a durable and beautiful gemstone with a growing reputation as a desirable alternative to more traditional birthstones. Its hardness makes it suitable for everyday wear, while its range of colors offers a variety of aesthetic options. Proper care, including regular cleaning and professional maintenance, will ensure that spinel jewelry remains a treasured possession for years to come. While the provided sources do not offer a comprehensive history or detailed gemological data, they establish spinel as a gemstone worthy of consideration for those seeking timeless beauty and lasting value.