The short answer: spinel comes in vivid reds, pinks, blues, purples and soft greys, with brilliance and hardness that make it excellent for rings. It is often a smart alternative to ruby and sapphire, and it deserves more attention than it gets.
Spinel has been mistaken for ruby for centuries, and some of the most famous historic red gems are in fact spinels. Today it is appreciated in its own right.
The main colours
| Colour | Notes |
|---|---|
| Red | Bright and vivid, a ruby like look. |
| Hot pink | Intense, sometimes with a glow. |
| Blue | From soft to deep, including cobalt tones. |
| Purple | From lilac to rich violet. |
| Grey and black | Modern, smoky and elegant. |
Why it works for rings
- Good hardness and durability for daily wear.
- High brilliance with a clean, glassy look.
- Many stones are not treated, and a report should confirm it.
Spinel and ruby
A red spinel and a ruby can look similar at first glance. They are different minerals with different properties. We describe each clearly so you know exactly what you are buying. See our guide to ruby settings and spinel vs sapphire vs ruby.
Spinel and sapphire
Blue spinel can resemble sapphire, but the tone is often softer and more steely, and some stones show a vivid cobalt blue. Because the two are different gems, they have different properties and different values, and we describe the stone by its true name on every quote. If you are weighing the two, ask us to show a spinel and a sapphire together on video so you can compare colour, brightness and the way each stone behaves in different light.
Black and grey spinel
Black spinel has a sleek, modern look, with a glassy shine that suits bold, dark designs. Grey spinel is softer and smoky, and it suits understated rings. Both pair well with white diamonds and with oxidised or brushed metals. They are a good choice for people who want something unusual that is still durable. See gothic and dark romantic rings.
Choosing a spinel
Look first at colour, because spinel is prized for vividness, then at cleanliness and cut. A good cut gives a bright, even stone with no dull windows. Some people love a gentle softness in the colour and others want strong saturation, so look at several stones before deciding. Our video consultations make that easy, and we can compare more than one stone in the same light.
Spinel as an accent stone
Small spinels make lovely accents, because they come in so many colours and are tough enough for a band. A row of pink spinels on a wedding band, a pair of red spinels beside a diamond or a hidden spinel under the centre stone can add colour without changing the character of the ring. See mixed gemstone rings.
Settings
Spinel works in solitaires, halos and three stone rings. Yellow and rose gold flatter red and pink, and white metals suit blue and grey.
Availability
Fine large spinels can be scarce, and prices rise for top colour. Tell us what you are looking for, and we will discuss what we can find.
How to choose
- Choose your colour.
- Check clarity and cut.
- Ask about treatment and the report.
- Pick a setting for daily wear.
See tourmaline types and the hardness chart, and browse diamonds for accent stones. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Is spinel durable enough for daily wear? Yes, it is a good choice.
Is spinel cheaper than ruby? Often, though top stones are valuable.
Can spinel be lab grown? Yes, and we label it clearly.
Why was spinel mistaken for ruby? Red spinel and ruby can look alike, and they were often found together.
Can I order a spinel ring from overseas? Yes, by video consultation, with insured, tracked FedEx delivery.