What is the Spinel ?

Spinel is a gemstone made of magnesium aluminum oxide. It comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, black, and even colorless. Spinel's beauty and durability make it a sought-after gemstone for jewelry. It is often confused with other gemstones like rubies and sapphires because of its similar appearance, particularly red Spinel, which resembles ruby.
Spinel in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is known for producing some of the finest Spinels in the world. The island's gem-rich areas, particularly in the Ratnapura district, yield Spinels of high clarity and vibrant colors. Sri Lankan Spinels are famous for their wide color range, with the most prized colors being bright red, cobalt blue, hot pink, and vivid purple.
Historical Significance
In history, Spinel was often mistaken for ruby and was found in many crown jewels, including the famous "Black Prince's Ruby" in the British Crown Jewels, which is actually a large red Spinel. Sri Lanka has a long history of being a source for such gems, dating back to ancient times when the island was known as "Ratna-Dweepa," meaning Gem Island.
Why Sri Lankan Spinel?
High-Quality Stones: Sri Lanka's Spinel stones are known for their excellent clarity and lack of inclusions, making them highly desirable.
Vibrant Colors: Sri Lankan Spinel is renowned for its wide range of vivid colors, especially deep reds, blues, and pinks.
Ethical Mining Practices: Sri Lanka's gemstone industry follows more sustainable and ethical mining practices compared to some other parts of the world. The mining is often small-scale, minimizing environmental impact.
Market Value
Although historically less valuable than rubies and sapphires, Spinel has gained popularity in recent years due to its beauty and durability, leading to a significant increase in its market value. The rising awareness of Spinel's unique characteristics has boosted its demand in the international market, making Sri Lankan Spinels especially coveted by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.