A gemstone steeped in history and admired for generations, the wide array of magnificent colours captured by spinel continue to intrigue.
The Laings Journal
The Art of Spinel: A Royal Gemstone
Whilst occasionally overlooked, the beauty of spinel gemstones has been appreciated throughout history. Containing a remarkable colour spectrum from vibrant purple to deep green, this gemstone is an elegant asset in jewellery pieces and can be an expression of individuality and style. At Laings, spinels feature in a stunning array of jewellery creations waiting to be discovered. Explore our curated guide and uncover the rich symbolism behind these captivating gemstones.
A gemstone of beauty & endurance
Discovered across the world with mining deposits in Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Vietnam and Thailand, spinel owes its unique spectrum of colour to the element chromium, in a similar vein to rubies and emeralds. The presence of chromium will dictate the intensity of colour in each stone with those of a high saturation producing deep red and pink spinels. Although spinel’s colour range is influenced by its crystal structure, other elements also contribute. Cobalt creates striking blue tones, while iron is responsible for the grey or pale blue shades commonly found in these gemstones. Sitting at an 8 on Mohs hardness scale, spinel jewellery can be worn day-to-day with the correct care and considerations. Along with peridot, spinel is the birthstone of August – associated with qualities such as renewal, strength and vitality.
A royal history
As recorded in history, spinels were often supplied to royal courts across the world from Rome to China. Often paired with widely recognised gemstones like ruby and sapphire, the pieces were passed through generations. One of the world’s most treasured spinel’s is an astonishing 170ct and is set in England’s Imperial state crown, famously dubbed the ‘Black Prince’s Ruby’ – an ode to the gemstones rich red colour. The piece was passed through generations, beloved by notable monarchs such as Edward Prince of Wales and Henry VII. The stone has preserved through wars, monarch changes and years becoming an emblem of history and reality. The piece can be admired currently in the Tower of London. For centuries, spinels were often misrepresented with many monarchs and admirers believing them to be rubies due to the similar colour produced and areas of discovery. Today, spinels are celebrated for their individuality alongside rubies and understood as a magnificent gemstone in their own right.
Image caption: Images: Archival
A colour for every style
With its remarkable chameleon-like qualities, spinel offers a vibrant spectrum of colours to suit every taste and style. Whilst most commonly known as red, pink and lilac – spinels have also been discovered in vibrant cobalt blues, oranges and grey. Wearers can confidently choose the hue that resonates most deeply with their soul, knowing that spinel brings enduring elegance and exceptional quality to every jewellery piece.
Discover Spinel Jewellery Creations at Laings.
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