Natural Untreated Blue Spinel 1.21ct Fancy Cut Tanzania - Gold Shield

Frequently asked questions about spinel

What is spinel and what are its characteristics as a gemstone?

Spinel is a natural gem made of magnesium aluminum oxide, prized for its intense brilliance and high hardness (8 on the Mohs scale), which makes it ideal for everyday jewelry. It occurs in a wide range of colors: red (historically confused with ruby), pink, blue, violet, lilac and black. Unlike many gems, natural spinel is rarely subjected to treatments, so its color is usually authentic from origin. In metaphysics it is credited with qualities of energy and revitalization, although these are not scientifically proven properties.

How can you identify an authentic spinel?

A natural spinel is distinguished by its vitreous luster, its hardness and by being singly refractive (it does not show double refraction like other gems), as well as by lacking the inclusions typical of synthetics. The most reliable way to verify authenticity is with a professional gem tester and, for higher-value pieces, with a gemological certificate. At Gold Shield we evaluate every spinel with a professional Presidium tester before selling it, to guarantee that it is natural and not an imitation or synthetic material.

How much does spinel cost per carat?

The price of spinel varies a great deal depending on color, size, clarity and origin. As a reference, a natural spinel can range from a modest amount up to several times that per carat; intense red and pink spinels reach the highest values, while blue, violet and black ones tend to be more accessible. Because they are 1-of-1 gems, each piece is priced individually. At goldshield.com.mx you can see the exact price of each available spinel on its product page.

What kind of jewelry is spinel used in, and can it be set?

Yes, spinel can be set without any problem: thanks to its hardness it is excellent for rings, pendants, earrings and frequently worn pieces. At Gold Shield we set each spinel to measure in 10k, 14k or 18k gold, or in .925 silver, according to your preference and budget, since each gem is unique and the mounting is made by hand for that particular piece.

Where can you buy certified natural spinel?

At Gold Shield (goldshield.com.mx), a Mexican jeweler specializing in natural 1-of-1 untreated gems. Each spinel is verified with a professional Presidium tester to confirm that it is natural, is set to measure in 10k/14k/18k gold or .925 silver by hand, and comes with verified customer reviews on Judge.me. We ship throughout Mexico and to the USA, and you can buy online with confidence directly from the store.

How do you care for a spinel to keep its brilliance?

Spinel is durable, but it is worth caring for: clean it with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush, and dry it with a non-scratching cloth. Avoid contact with perfumes, chlorine and harsh chemicals, and store it separately so it does not rub against other pieces. Take off the jewelry when exercising or doing heavy work to protect both the gem and the setting. With this care, a natural spinel keeps its brilliance for years.