Colorless spinels are most likely synthetic. (Aside from the very rare colorless natural spinels, there are also very light, almost colorless natural specimens). These colorless synthetics make nice diamond simulants.
Are spinels valuable?
Red, pink, lilac, and blue are commercially important spinel colors. Some spinel colors are more rare and valuable than others. In general, red spinel is the most desirable, followed by fine cobalt-blue spinel, then by vibrant hot pink and vivid orange stones.
Is spinel real or synthetic?
Synthetic Spinels are the artificial counterparts of stones like aquamarine. They are quite easily created in the labs with a fusion of the constituents and minerals present in the natural gemstones like aquamarine.17 May 2019
Is spinel an expensive gem?
Star Spinels are known, but are extremely rare. Certain colors are more valuable, especially reds and strong pinks. Many Spinels have a significant gray secondary hue, and these colors are much less valuable. Top Spinels in the 2 to 5 carat size will often sell for $3,000 to $5,000 a carat.
Why is spinel so expensive?
Evaluating the color of spinel Red spinel looks strikingly similar to rubies. Interestingly, red spinel is much rarer than rubies, but due to its extreme rarity there is little demand for it and therefore it is not as valuable. As with any gemstone, spinel with even saturation and intense hue are the most valuable.
Is spinel precious or semiprecious?
Spinel, traditionally considered as 'semi-precious', is a fine gem that is rapidly growing in popularity. Spinel has a bright vitreous lustre and can be found in a wide array of colours including red, blue, violet, and pink.
Is spinel a precious gemstone?
Every other gemstone that isn't one of those four is considered to be semi precious. The list goes on and on, but some of the more common ones are: alexandrite, agate, amethyst, aquamarine, garnet, lapis lazuli, moonstone, opal, pearl, peridot, rose quartz, spinel, tanzanite, tourmaline, turquoise and zircon.11 May 2018
Are spinels Rarer Than rubies?
Deep red spinel is rarer than ruby but sells at a fraction of the price. The blue stones below them were cut from material mined in Tanzania.
Is spinel a precious stone?
Additionally, the spinel gem is available as a synthetic spinel and is common and inexpensive. It is also often used as a substitute for more expensive gemstones, which has further impacted the perceived value and reputation of the stone. The truth is, the natural spinel stone is rare and incredibly beautiful.8 Nov 2021
Natural spinel, however, has always been a rare and beautiful gem. As more information comes to light about the extensive and invasive enhancements lower-grade ruby and sapphire receive to “pump up” their color or clarity, educated consumers have come to appreciate spinel's natural beauty.