Red spinel, alongside peridot and sardonyx, serves as a birthstone for August. While peridot and sardonyx boast long-standing traditions, red spinel is a more recent addition to the list, officially recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America in 2016. This acknowledgment reflects a growing appreciation for the gemstone’s beauty, durability, and a fascinating history often intertwined with that of ruby, a gem with which it was frequently mistaken for centuries. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of this captivating gemstone.
History and Lore
For a considerable period, red spinel was misidentified as ruby, particularly within historical royal collections. This was due to the visual similarities between the two gemstones, and the lack of sophisticated gemological testing methods to distinguish them. Several prominent examples illustrate this historical confusion. Catherine the Great of Russia believed the impressive red stone topping her Imperial Crown, commissioned in 1763, was a ruby, when in fact it was a large spinel. Similarly, the famed “Black Prince’s Ruby” adorning the British Imperial State Crown, worn by Queen Victoria at her coronation in 1838, is also a spinel. Even the 361-carat Timur Ruby, presented to Queen Victoria in 1851, was later identified as a spinel.
This misidentification wasn’t simply a matter of mistaken identity; it speaks to the high regard in which red spinel was held. Its vibrant color and brilliance were valued just as highly as ruby, and it often graced the jewels of royalty and nobility. In Burma (now Myanmar), high-quality spinel crystals found in the Mogok region were known as “anyon nat thwe,” meaning “spinels that have been cut and polished by the spirits,” highlighting the reverence with which the gem was regarded. It wasn’t until 1783 that spinel was formally recognized as a distinct mineral from ruby, thanks to advances in mineralogy.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide, formed in metamorphic rocks under conditions of extreme heat and pressure. It often occurs in the same geological deposits as corundum, the mineral family that includes both ruby and sapphire. This proximity contributed to the historical confusion between the two gems. The formation process involves impure limestone being altered by intense heat and pressure, resulting in the creation of spinel crystals.
While sources for spinel are diverse, specific locations are known for producing particularly fine specimens. The sources of sardonyx include India, Brazil, Uruguay, the United States, and Germany. Peridot is found in hardened lava flows and even in meteorites. However, the provided sources do not detail specific locations for spinel beyond the Mogok region of Burma (Myanmar), renowned for its high-luster, perfectly formed octahedral crystals.
Gemological Properties
Red spinel is a durable gemstone, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. It crystallizes in the cubic system, meaning its atoms are arranged in a symmetrical, cube-like structure. This contributes to its brilliance and isotropic optical properties. The chemical composition of spinel is magnesium aluminum oxide.
The sources do not provide specific details regarding the refractive index, specific gravity, or other detailed gemological properties of spinel. However, they do highlight its durability, suggesting it can withstand ultrasonic cleaning and is relatively resistant to scratching, though it should still be stored separately from harder gemstones like diamonds and sapphires to prevent damage. The sources also mention that certain treated spinels may have their color altered by exposure to harsh chemicals or direct heat, indicating the importance of proper care.
Here's a table summarizing the August birthstones and their key characteristics, based on the provided sources:
| Birthstone | Color(s) | Origin | Historical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Yellowish green to greenish yellow, brown | Hardened lava, meteorites | Often mistaken for emerald and topaz; Cleopatra’s “emeralds” may have been peridot. |
| Sardonyx | Reddish brown with white banding | India, Brazil, Uruguay, USA, Germany | Dates back over 4,000 years; historically used in cameos and intaglios. |
| Red Spinel | Red | Metamorphic rocks, often with corundum | Historically mistaken for ruby; adorned royal jewels. |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not delve deeply into the metaphysical properties or symbolism associated with spinel. However, the historical context suggests a connection to power, passion, and protection, given its frequent use in royal regalia. The Burmese belief that spinel crystals were polished by spirits further imbues the gem with a sense of mystique and spiritual significance.
The sources do offer alternative birthstone associations based on zodiac signs, guardian angels, and even the hour of one’s birth. For those born under the sign of Leo (July 23 - August 23), onyx is an alternative birthstone. For those born in August, diamond is listed as an alternative birthstone associated with the guardian angel Humatiel. These alternative associations offer a broader range of options for individuals seeking a gemstone with personal resonance.
Care and Cleaning
Spinel is a relatively resilient gemstone, but proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance. The sources recommend cleaning spinel jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gentle ultrasonic cleaning is also acceptable. However, it’s crucial to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or direct heat, particularly for treated spinels, as these can alter the color. To prevent scratches, spinel jewelry should be stored separately from harder gemstones. Regular checks of prongs and settings are also advised, especially for frequently worn pieces.
Conclusion
Red spinel represents a compelling addition to the August birthstone family. Its rich history, often shrouded in mistaken identity with ruby, adds to its allure. The gem’s durability and brilliance make it a desirable choice for jewelry, while its geological origins and unique formation process contribute to its scientific interest. While the provided sources do not offer exhaustive detail on all gemological properties or metaphysical beliefs, they paint a picture of a gemstone steeped in history, beauty, and a touch of mystique. Red spinel is a testament to the enduring fascination humans have with the treasures hidden within the Earth.