For centuries, a gemstone often mistaken for ruby has quietly held its own allure. Spinel, now officially recognized as an August birthstone alongside peridot and sardonyx, boasts a rich history, vibrant colors, and remarkable durability. While historically overshadowed by its more famous cousin, corundum (ruby), spinel is gaining recognition as a gemstone worthy of discovery and appreciation. This article will delve into the fascinating story of spinel, exploring its historical misidentification, gemological properties, and its place in both royal collections and modern jewelry.
A History of Mistaken Identity
The story of spinel is inextricably linked to that of ruby. For a considerable period, red spinel was frequently misidentified as ruby, particularly in historical contexts. This was due to the visual similarity in color, and the lack of sophisticated gemological tools to differentiate between the two minerals. Many famous “rubies” adorning royal collections throughout history were, in fact, spinels. Notable examples include the 170-carat Black Prince’s Ruby, part of the British Crown Jewels, the 352-carat Timur Ruby, and the 398-carat Catherine the Great’s Ruby – all later identified as magnificent spinels. This historical case of mistaken identity adds to spinel’s intriguing story, highlighting how closely its beauty can rival that of ruby. It wasn’t until several hundred years ago that mineralogists were able to definitively distinguish between the two.
Modern Recognition and Standardization
The standardization of birthstones is a relatively recent development. While the tradition of associating gemstones with birth months dates back to biblical times and the breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel, a universally accepted list was lacking for centuries. The National Association of Jewelers addressed this in 1912, establishing an official list of American birthstones. This list was further modified in 1952 and, more recently, in 2002 with the addition of tanzanite to December, and in 2016 with the inclusion of spinel as an August birthstone by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America. This recognition reflects a growing appreciation for spinel’s unique qualities and its place within the world of gemstones.
Gemological Properties and Varieties
Spinel is a distinct mineral, chemically different from corundum (ruby and sapphire). While the sources do not provide the chemical formula, they do highlight the range of colors in which spinel occurs. Best known for its reds, pinks, purples, and rare vivid blues colored by cobalt, spinel also appears in other hues. The sources do not detail the hardness or refractive index of spinel. The gem is described as durable, making it suitable for everyday wear.
The historical confusion with ruby stemmed from the similarity in red coloration. However, spinel’s range of colors extends beyond red, offering a diverse palette for jewelry designers and collectors. The vivid blue spinels, colored by cobalt, are particularly prized.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The provided sources do not detail specific symbolism or cultural significance associated with spinel beyond its historical association with royalty through its presence in famous crown jewels. However, the sources do emphasize the gemstone’s beauty and desirability, suggesting an inherent value placed upon it throughout history. The fact that it was often mistaken for ruby, a stone traditionally associated with passion, protection, and prosperity, may have indirectly imbued spinel with similar connotations.
Spinel in Jewelry and Collecting
Spinel is gaining popularity among both jewelry buyers and collectors. Its durability, variety of colors, and intriguing history make it a compelling choice for both everyday wear and investment pieces. The sources highlight that spinel is a favorite among staff at Olufson Designs and collectors who shop with them, indicating a growing appreciation for the gemstone within the industry. The fact that it was historically overlooked, and therefore often available at lower prices than comparable gemstones, also contributes to its appeal.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for spinel. However, given its described durability, it can be assumed that standard gemstone care practices apply. These generally include cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, and avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
Conclusion
Spinel represents a fascinating chapter in the history of gemstones. Once overshadowed by its resemblance to ruby, it has emerged as a gemstone in its own right, recognized for its beauty, durability, and intriguing past. Its inclusion as an August birthstone is a testament to its growing appreciation within the gemological community and among jewelry enthusiasts. From adorning royal collections to captivating modern designers and collectors, spinel continues to shine as a gemstone worth discovering.