gemstone
Spinel
Magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 8 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pink, red, blue, purple, to black (this specimen is a vibrant pink); vitreous luster; isometric (cubic) crystal system; octahedral crystal habit; poor or indistinct cleavage; specific gravity around 3.58 - 4.06.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Spinel in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pink, red, blue, purple, to black (this specimen is a vibrant pink); vitreous luster; isometric (cubic) crystal system; octahedral crystal habit; poor or indistinct cleavage; specific gravity around 3.58 - 4.06.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in metamorphic environments such as contact-metamorphosed limestones and marbles, as well as in alluvial gravel deposits from weathering of parent rocks.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry due to its brilliance, durability, and wide range of colors; historically famous red spinels were often mistaken for rubies.
Geological facts
Many famous 'rubies' in the crown jewels of various nations, such as the Black Prince's Ruby and the Timur Ruby, are actually large red spinels.
Field identification & locations
Found globally in countries like Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. Identified by its characteristic octahedral crystal shape, hardness, and lack of birefringence as an isometric mineral.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Topaz
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary