Spinel, a gemstone once overshadowed by its striking resemblance to ruby, has emerged from the shadows of history to claim its place as a celebrated birthstone. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) officially added spinel to the list of August birthstones, joining the traditional peridot and sardonyx. This decision recognized a gemstone that is not only visually stunning and remarkably durable but also rich with historical lore and metaphysical symbolism. For centuries, spinel was mistakenly identified as ruby, adorning royal crowns and necklaces, only to be correctly identified by mineralogists in more recent times. Today, it stands on its own merits, offering a breathtaking spectrum of colors, from the coveted vivid red to rare cobalt blues, pinks, and even black. This article delves into the comprehensive world of spinel, exploring its journey from misidentified royal jewel to a modern birthstone, its geological origins, its precise gemological properties, and the care required to maintain its brilliance. We will uncover the history that has shaped its identity, the sources that yield its finest specimens, and the meanings that have been ascribed to it across cultures, providing a thorough guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore: From Royal Misidentification to Modern Recognition
The history of spinel is deeply intertwined with the history of ruby, a narrative of mistaken identity that spanned centuries. For much of recorded history, fine red spinel was indistinguishable from ruby to the untrained eye, and even to many experts before the advent of modern mineralogy. Consequently, some of the most famous "rubies" in royal collections worldwide are, in fact, magnificent spinels. Among these are the legendary 170-carat Black Prince's Ruby in the British Crown Jewels, the 352-carat Timur Ruby, and the 398-carat Catherine the Great’s Ruby. These historical gems, all later identified as spinel, are testaments to the gemstone's beauty and durability, having survived for centuries as prized possessions of empires and monarchs. It was only a few hundred years ago that mineralogists developed the techniques to reliably distinguish between the two minerals, revealing spinel’s true identity.
The journey of spinel from being a "ruby" to becoming a recognized birthstone is a relatively recent development. While spinel has been appreciated by collectors and dealers for its wonderful brilliance and sparkle, its official recognition as a birthstone came in July 2016. The decision by the AGTA and JA to add spinel as a third birthstone for August was a fortunate one, providing those born in the month with a gem that resonates deeply with its personality and offers a wider range of aesthetic choices. This addition was not merely a marketing decision but an acknowledgment of spinel’s unique virtues and its long, if often overlooked, history in the world of gemstones. The traditional August birthstones, peridot and sardonyx, have their own ancient lineages—sardonyx dates back over 4,000 years, and peridot has been valued since ancient times. Spinel’s inclusion enriches this heritage, offering a modern alternative that is both historically significant and geologically fascinating.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄. It forms under specific geological conditions, often in the same environments as other precious stones like ruby and sapphire. This shared geology is one reason why spinel and corundum (ruby/sapphire) are frequently found together in the same deposits. The gemstone’s name has debatable origins; some sources suggest it stems from the Latin word "spina" or "spinella," meaning "thorn," in reference to the sharp, pointy crystals it forms. Others trace it to the Greek word "spitha" or "spinther," meaning "spark" or "sparkle," a fitting description for its exceptional brilliance.
While the provided sources do not specify particular mining locations with great detail, they note that spinel often grows in the same mines as rubies and sapphires. This association is a key clue to its primary sources. Historically, the finest red spinels have come from the marble-hosted deposits of Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar (Burma), which is also renowned for its rubies. Other notable sources include Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and parts of Africa, such as Tanzania and Madagascar, which are known for producing a wide variety of spinel colors, including the coveted cobalt-blue hues. The geological formation typically involves the metamorphism of aluminum-rich rocks in the presence of magnesium, leading to the crystallization of spinel within these environments. The gemstone’s occurrence in alluvial deposits (riverbeds and sediments) is also common, as erosion releases the durable crystals from their host rock, making them accessible to miners.
Gemological Properties: The Science of Spinel
Spinel is prized not only for its beauty but also for its excellent gemological properties, which make it a durable and brilliant choice for jewelry. Its physical and optical characteristics are distinct and well-documented, contributing to its identity as a gemstone of high quality.
Chemical and Physical Properties
- Chemical Composition: Magnesium Aluminum Oxide (MgAl₂O₄)
- Crystal System: Cubic
- Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear, though slightly softer than corundum (ruby/sapphire, hardness 9).
- Refractive Index: 1.718 (typically ranges from 1.712 to 1.762)
- Specific Gravity: 3.58 (typically ranges from 3.58 to 3.61)
- Cleavage: None, which is advantageous for cutting and setting, as it lacks the tendency to split along planes.
- Durability: Spinel has no cleavage, which, combined with its good hardness, makes it resistant to chipping and breaking. However, like all gemstones, it can be damaged by hard blows or abrasive materials.
Color and Clarity
Spinel is renowned for its "treasure house of beautiful hues." The most valuable colors are red and pink, followed by the rare and coveted cobalt blue. The gemstone’s color palette is extensive, including: - Red and Pink: Colored by iron and chromium. - Cobalt Blue: A rare and highly prized color, colored by cobalt. - Orange, Purple, Violet, Yellow, Brown, Green, White, Colorless, and Black.
The vivid red spinel is particularly sought after, often rivaling the finest ruby in its intensity. Blue spinel, especially deep blue with gray tones, is another favorite. Spinel generally has good clarity, with many stones being "eye-clean" (free of visible inclusions). Its transparency can range from transparent to translucent, with the most valuable specimens being transparent with vibrant color. The gemstone’s high refractive index and dispersion give it a brilliant sparkle, making it a favorite among collectors and jewelers for its "wonderful brilliance and sparkle."
Cut and Carat
Spinel is cut into a variety of shapes to maximize its color and brilliance. Common cuts include round, oval, cushion, and pear shapes. Due to its excellent clarity and color saturation, spinel can be cut into larger sizes without significant loss of visual appeal. While carat weight is a factor in its value, the color is the primary determinant of a spinel's price, with the most vivid reds and blues commanding the highest prices per carat.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical attributes, spinel carries a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs, which have evolved over time and across cultures. These associations add a layer of depth to the gemstone, making it a meaningful choice for jewelry and personal adornment.
Historical and Cultural Symbolism
Historically, as a gem mistaken for ruby, spinel inherited some of the symbolic meanings associated with the "king of gems." Rubies have long been symbols of power, passion, and protection, and spinel, in its royal guise, was often seen as a stone of nobility and strength. The famous Black Prince's Ruby, for instance, was considered a talisman of victory and protection for its royal owners.
Modern Metaphysical Beliefs
In contemporary crystal healing and metaphysical practices, spinel is attributed with a variety of properties. It is believed to inspire passion and devotion, making it a meaningful gift for loved ones. The gem is also thought to promote vitality and mental clarity, enhancing cognitive function and intuition. Some believe spinel can unlock hidden potential and encourage self-discovery. These beliefs are not universally accepted in formal gemology but are widely reported in modern sources.
Each color of spinel is sometimes associated with specific meanings: - Red and Pink Spinel: Linked to love, energy, and passion. - Blue Spinel: Associated with calm, communication, and clarity. - Black Spinel: Seen as a stone of protection and grounding.
Furthermore, spinel is considered a traditional 22nd wedding anniversary gift, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. Its addition as an August birthstone provides individuals born in this month with a gem that may resonate more deeply with their personality than the traditional peridot or sardonyx. The diverse colors and captivating brilliance offer a wider range of aesthetic choices, allowing individuals to select a spinel that truly reflects their unique style and spirit.
Care and Cleaning: Maintaining Spinel's Brilliance
Given its gemological properties, spinel is a relatively durable gemstone that can be enjoyed for a lifetime with proper care. Its hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale makes it resistant to everyday wear and tear, but it is not impervious to damage.
Practical Care Guidelines
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as those found in household cleaners, chlorine pools, or cosmetics, can damage the gemstone's surface or affect its polish. It is advisable to remove spinel jewelry before engaging in such activities.
- Protect from Extreme Temperatures: Sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock, potentially leading to fractures in the stone. Avoid placing spinel jewelry near high heat sources like stoves or open flames.
- Cleaning Methods: The safest way to clean spinel is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone and its setting, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are generally safe for spinel due to its lack of cleavage and good hardness. However, caution should be exercised if the spinel contains visible fractures or inclusions, as the vibrations or steam could exacerbate existing weaknesses.
- Storage: When not in use, store spinel jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching. A soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal.
Regular cleaning will help to remove dirt and oils that accumulate from daily wear, restoring the gem’s natural luster and ensuring it continues to sparkle brilliantly. By following these simple care instructions, owners can preserve the beauty and integrity of their spinel jewelry for generations.
Conclusion
Spinel’s recent recognition as an August birthstone marks a significant moment in gemological history. Once overshadowed by its resemblance to ruby, spinel has emerged as a gemstone in its own right, celebrated for its captivating colors, durability, and rich symbolism. From the royal courts where it was mistaken for precious rubies to the modern jewelry cases where it shines as a distinct and valued gem, spinel’s journey is one of rediscovery and appreciation. Its geological formation, precise gemological properties, and the spectrum of meanings ascribed to it make it a gemstone of profound interest and beauty. For those born in August, spinel offers not just a birthstone but a gemstone with a storied past, a brilliant present, and a promising future in the world of fine jewelry and gemology.