A spinal gemstone refers to spinel, a natural mineral that is highly prized for its brilliance, durability, and vibrant array of colors. It has been valued for centuries and was often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its striking resemblance to these gemstones.

Physical Properties

• Chemical Composition: Magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4).

• Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for everyday wear.

• Crystal System: Isometric (cubic), which contributes to its brilliance and even light reflection.

• Luster: Vitreous (glass-like).

• Transparency: Typically transparent, though some may have inclusions.

Colors

Spinel is available in a broad spectrum of colors, including:

• Red: The most prized and often confused with ruby.

• Pink: Soft to vibrant shades.

• Blue: Ranges from steely gray-blue to vivid cobalt blue (from trace amounts of iron and cobalt).

• Purple: A blend of blue and red tones.

• Orange: Rare and highly sought-after.

• Black: Opaque spinels, popular in modern jewelry.

Origins

Major sources of spinel include:

• Myanmar (Burma): Known for vibrant red and pink spinels.

• Sri Lanka: Produces a variety of colors, particularly pastel shades.

• Tanzania: Famous for cobalt-blue spinel.

• Vietnam: Offers fine-quality spinels in red, pink, and purple hues.

• Madagascar: A newer source with a wide color range.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties

• Symbolism: Represents vitality, energy, and rejuvenation. Historically associated with love and devotion.

• Energy: Believed to enhance creativity, encourage clarity of thought, and alleviate stress.

• Chakra: Depending on its color, spinel is associated with various chakras. For example:

• Red spinel aligns with the root chakra, promoting grounding and vitality.

• Blue spinel resonates with the throat chakra, enhancing communication.

Jewelry Uses

• Appearance: Spinel’s brilliance and vivid colors make it ideal for all types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets.

• Cut: Often faceted to maximize sparkle; common cuts include cushion, oval, and round shapes.

• Durability: Its hardness and resilience make it suitable for both everyday wear and heirloom pieces.

**