The name spinel is derived from the Latin word “Spina” which means thorn and is referred due to its crystal shape which looks like the thorns of roses. The Black Prince’s Ruby is a 170 ct spinel which is set on top of the British Imperial State crown. With its exceptional beauty and strength spinel is sometimes mistaken for Ruby and Sapphire. Spinel has very similar visual and chemical properties compared to ruby and both the gemstones get it colors from the element chromium. This is the reason spinel is sometimes called “The Master of Disguise” gemstone. Spinel comes in various color like white, black, blue, pink, red, purple and grey. Vivid hot pink and ruby red spinel color are the collector’s favorite. Unfortunately, due to the irregular supply of rough this gemstone’s availability has become very limited.
Moh Hardness- 8
Origin- Tanzania, Burma, Vietnam, Sri-Lanka, Afghanistan and Russia.
