What is the center gemstone of this ring from Gems of Note? It’s not ruby. It’s a 4.53-carat untreated red spinel surrounded by diamond and ruby accents.
Some of the world’s largest and most famous “rubies” are really spinels, such as the “Black Princes Ruby” and the 361-ct “Timur Ruby” in the English Crown Jewels.
Spinel comes in other colors such as blue, pink, lavender, orange, and black, but red is the most valued. Myanmar is the primary source for red spinel.
According to Lotus Gemology in Bangkok, the number of oiled spinels being sold on the market has been increasing since 2015, and often the fracture filling is not disclosed. There can be a dramatic difference between the oiled and unoiled appearance of the stone.
For more information and photos, go to:
http://www.lotusgemology.com/…/477-oiled-spinel…
Before buying gemstones it’s wise to always ask if a stone has been treated and if so how.
Photo from Brian Denney of Gems of Note.
Guest articles by Renée Newman:
https://gem-spectrum.com/category/renee-newman
About the author:
Renée Newman is a gemologist (GG, GIA), lecturer, writer and author of 15 books on gems and jewelry. Her goal is to provide consumers and jewelry professionals with unbiased, affordable information on how to buy, evaluate and appreciate gems and jewelry. She can be reached through her website:
