Spinel

Spinel: The Impostor Gem That Became a Star

For centuries, spinel was mistaken for ruby, its vivid red tones earning it a place in royal crowns and ancient treasure hoards under the wrong name. Found in the same deposits as ruby, spinel was virtually indistinguishable until modern gemological testing revealed its unique identity.

Historically, the finest red spinels came from the Balas region of Afghanistan and were long referred to as “Balas Rubies.” Today, spinel is recognized for its exceptional brilliance, durability, and wide color range—including striking shades of red, pink, lavender, blue, and gray.

The discovery of vivid Mahenge spinels in Tanzania elevated the gem’s profile, introducing collectors to a stone with the beauty of ruby but the mystique of rediscovery.

This collection features hand-selected spinel gemstones and jewelry, chosen for color saturation, clarity, and responsible sourcing.

10% of every purchase supports environmental foundations in spinel-producing regions.

🔴 Once mistaken, now celebrated
💎 Brilliant, durable, and diverse in color
🌍 Ethically sourced