Spinel is a mineral that belongs to the spinel group, which consists of various minerals with similar chemical compositions. It is composed of magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4) and may contain trace amounts of other elements like iron, zinc, or manganese. The name "spinel" is derived from the Latin word "spina," meaning "thorn," because of its pointed crystal shape.
Spinel is typically found in igneous rocks, such as basalts or granites, and can also be found in metamorphic rocks. It commonly occurs in octahedral crystals, which have eight faces, but it can also be found in other crystal habits. The color of spinel varies widely and can range from transparent to translucent, and from colorless to vibrant hues such as red, blue, purple, green, or black. One of the most famous varieties of spinel is the deep red "ruby spinel," which resembles a ruby and was sometimes mistaken for one in the past.
Due to its hardness and durability, spinel is often used as a gemstone in jewelry. It has a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, making it suitable for various jewelry applications, including rings, pendants, and earrings. Additionally, spinel is valued for its exceptional clarity and brilliance. Its rich colors, high refractive index, and impressive dispersion give it the ability to reflect and refract light, resulting in captivating and eye-catching gemstones.
In conclusion, spinel is a mineral that occurs in various colors, possesses excellent clarity and brilliance, and is often used as a gemstone in jewelry due to its durability and attractive aesthetic qualities.
