Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association announced earlier this month that they were making a change to the national birthstone list. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that they were adding Spinel to the August birthstone list. They recognized the need for diversity within the color wheel each month and decided to make its third change since 1912 when the birthstone list was originally created by the American National Retail Jewelers Association.
Spinel is a beautiful stone that many people don’t hear about. The stone is associated with ruby in many areas where it is mined, and this is the reason why it has been confused with it for a very long time. Many famous rubies in crown jewels are in fact spinel. Spinel occurs in a range of colors, such as rose pink to rich red; lavender to deep violet; light to deep blue, orange, yellow, brown and black.
Spinels that are found in the market are mostly untreated since they are almost always completely devoid of flaws and completely clean. However, some Spinels are heat treated to enhance the color of the natural gem to a deeper hue. Spinels are thought to protect its owner from all harm and help to reconcile differences and to soothe away sadness. The red spinel gemstones especially is said to promote physical vitality and to stimulate strength.
Spinel can be cleaned with mild dish soap. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone where dust can collect.
We love this new addition to the birthstone list because it gives you more options! You no longer HAVE to get the vibrant green stone if that isn’t what you like! Here are a few beautiful pieces that I think you will like designed by Colore’ SG.
Gabriel & Company another fabulous designer we carry in our store also uses spinel in their sterling silver line! Most of the pieces shown below are under $200!
