Spinelle

Le spinel is a precious gem from the oxide family, renowned for its dazzling beauty and varied colours. Used for centuries in luxury jewellery, this rare and precious stone is often unknown to the general public, but is highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs. Let's find out more about spinel, its characteristics and types, and its importance in the world of jewellery.

Origin and formation of spinel

Le spinel forms in specific geological conditions, mainly in metamorphic and metasomatic rocks. It is often found in association with other gems such as corundum and garnet. The largest sources of spinel are found in ThailandMyanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Vietnam. In Thailand, the Chanthaburi and Kanchanaburi spinel mines are particularly renowned for the quality of their stones.

Physical and chemical characteristics

Spinel is an oxide of magnesium and aluminium, with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄. It has a cubic crystal structure, which gives it remarkable brilliance and sparkle. The hardness of spinel on the Mohs scale is 8, making it scratch-resistant and suitable for everyday use in jewellery.

Colours and varieties

Spinel comes in a wide range of colours, from intense red to blue, pink, orange, yellow and even black. The most popular colour is red, which is often confused with ruby, particularly in antique jewellery. Red spinel of exceptional quality is sometimes called "ruby spinel". The colours are due to the presence of trace elements such as chromium, iron and cobalt.

Use in luxury jewellery

In luxury jewellery, spinel is used to create unique and elegant pieces. Its brilliance and hardness make it an ideal choice for rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Jewellery designers particularly appreciate spinel for its ability to capture and reflect light, adding a touch of sophistication to each creation.

Fake spinels and synthetic spinels

As with many gemstones, there are imitations of spinel. Synthetic spinel is produced in a laboratory and has the same physical and chemical properties as natural spinel. However, they are generally less expensive and less popular with collectors. It is therefore essential to consult an expert or gemmologist to be sure of the authenticity of a spinel.

Maintenance and care

To preserve the brilliance and beauty of your spinel, we recommend cleaning it regularly with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and violent shocks that could damage the stone. Store your spinel jewellery separately to avoid scratches.

Frequently asked questions about spinel

• What is the significance of spinel?
  Spinel is often associated with revitalisation and energy. It is said to bring feelings of renewal and vitality to the wearer.
• Is spinel more expensive than ruby?
  In general, rubies are more expensive than spinels. However, spinels of exceptional quality can fetch high prices, especially the red ones, which can be mistaken for rubies.
• How can you recognise a real spinel?
  A true spinel can be identified by a gemmologist using specific tests. Characteristics to be examined include hardness, crystal structure and the presence of natural inclusions.
• Where can you find the best spinel?
  The best spinels come from renowned sources such as Burma, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Vietnam and Thailand. Each region produces spinel with unique characteristics.

In conclusion, spinel is a multi-faceted gemstone, ideal for those looking to add a touch of colour and brilliance to their luxury jewellery. Whether you're a collector or a lover of beautiful stones, spinel is a gem that deserves your full attention.