The gemstone Spinel has been quietly but masterfully establishing itself in the history of jewellery. Although many jewellery wearers haven't heard of them, for centuries Red Spinels were often confused for the more famous Ruby — and for good reason, Red Spinels are incredibly beautiful, just like a fine quality Ruby. In recent years Spinel has been gaining its own spotlight, and we couldn't be happier.
Spinels can be found in almost an almost any colour you can think of, and are strong enough for even engagement rings which call for durable gems, making them a versatile gemstone fit for any jewellery piece. Here are 6 of my favourite Spinel colours.
1. Red Spinel
Just like the historically world famous Ruby, a fine quality Red Spinel is jaw dropping. From sparkly bright reds, through to deep rich earthy reds, if red is your colour, you're bound to find a shade you love in this gem variety.
Beautiful Red Spinels have historically been mistaken as Rubies.
2. Blue Spinel
Although Blue Sapphire is the long standing favourite for blue coloured gems, Blue Spinel gives Sapphire some tough competition. The blues that can be found in Spinels are incredible, particularly ‘Cobalt Blue Spinels' which owe their colour to - you guessed it - the element Cobalt.
Blue Spinel is a beautiful alternative to the more commonly known Blue Sapphire.
3. Pink Spinel
With colours that rival the ever popular Pink Sapphire, Pink Spinel is a gemstone force to be reckoned with. A fine quality Pink Spinel is so captivating it glows - quite literally, in the case of ‘Neon Spinels’ or ‘Jedi Spinels’, which exhibit fluorescence in UV light. Their colour combined with their optical properties make for an impressive statement piece.
Pink Spinels are beautiful for statement jewellery pieces.
4. Grey Spinel
If you're looking for a gemstone that isn't a diamond, but can't commit to a single bright colour, Grey Spinel could be your perfect match. Strong enough to be set in engagement rings, Grey Spinels are an excellent neutral coloured gemstone that’s alternative to a traditional diamond. There aren't many gemstones that are found in the colour grey, and Spinels are my favourite grey coloured gem around.
Grey Spinel makes for a beautiful neutral coloured gemstone piece.
5. Orange Spinel
The colour orange is rarely seen in a standard jewellery display case, making it an excellent choice for jewellery wearers wanting something out of the ordinary. Orange Spinel, particularly in a vibrant hot orange, is a beautiful option to make a unique design a reality.
Orange gemstones, like this Hot Orange Spinel, are a unique choice for bespoke jewellery.
6. Purple Spinel
Spinels are found in purple shades from deep violet right through to pastel lavender finds. It’s one of the few gemstone varieties that offer purple as a colour choice strong enough for an every day piece of jewellery.
Purple Spinels are one of few purple gemstone varieties that are strong enough for engagement rings.
With its huge array of colours, and excellent strength, Spinel is an incredible gemstone variety for coloured gemstone jewellery. From deep, rich shades, to pastel colours, there is a huge variety of colours to be explored and enjoyed.