What is Spinel?

Spinel: Mogok Gemstone for Fine Jewellery

Natural Spinel is a rare and naturally occurring gemstone admired for its vivid colours, exceptional brilliance, and impressive durability. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is ideal for fine jewellery such as engagement rings, earrings, pendants, and more.

Spinel forms deep within the Earth’s crust, growing over millions, even billions of years. Once mistaken for ruby, spinel is now recognised as a prestigious gemstone in its own right. It has been officially added as an August birthstone and is traditionally gifted for the 22nd wedding anniversary.


Why Mogok Spinel Is the Finest

Unlike many other gemstones, natural spinel is rarely treated. Its vivid colours are entirely formed by nature. While spinel can be found in several countries, the most sought-after specimens come from Mogok, Myanmar. Mogok is legendary for producing spinels with exceptional saturation, high clarity, and unmatched prestige.

Other respected origins include Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania, but Mogok remains unrivalled for purity, provenance, and rarity. Collectors and gem experts agree: Mogok spinel is the finest and most valuable.


Famous Spinels in History

Spinel has long been celebrated, though often misidentified as ruby. Some of history’s most famous “rubies” are actually spinel:

  • The Black Prince’s Ruby (170 carats) adorns the British Imperial State Crown.

  • The Timur Ruby (361 carats) was gifted to Queen Victoria and later confirmed as spinel.

  • The Samarian Spinel (500 carats) is the largest known spinel, part of the Iranian Crown Jewels.


Types of Spinel Gemstone

There are four main types of spinel in the gemstone market:

1. Natural Spinel
Formed naturally in metamorphic rocks like marble, natural spinel is the rarest and most valuable.

2. Synthetic Spinel
Lab-created but chemically identical to natural spinel; widely available and affordable, used mainly in decorative jewellery.

3. Simulant Spinel
Lookalikes made from materials such as cubic zirconia or synthetic moissanite—visually similar, but chemically unrelated.

4. Composite Spinel
Made by fusing fragments of natural and synthetic spinel. These are low-value and not considered fine-quality gems.


Believed Benefits of Spinel

Throughout history, natural gemstones have been associated with healing and symbolism. Spinel is said to have a calming energy, helping to relieve stress, uplift the spirit, and bring hope during challenging times.


Why Choose Natural Spinel for Fine Jewellery?

Spinel offers a unique combination of rarity, beauty, and durability, making it a top choice for anyone seeking something truly special. Its vibrant hues and storied history set it apart from more common gemstones.


Shop Mogok Spinel Gemstones in London

Looking for a rare, natural gemstone direct from Mogok?
Find our fine-quality natural spinels over 3 carats here.