• 2.29ct bubblegum pink cushion cut Spinel
• Measures 7.5 x 7.5 x 5.24mm
• Origin: Tanzania
• Cut by Peter Torraca in New York

Spinel is one of the most captivating and yet underappreciated gems, in our opinion. It comes in bold blues, bright pinks, pastely lavenders, and reds that shockingly resemble ruby. The “Black Prince’s Ruby” that is set in England’s Imperial Crown is actually a spinel that had its identity mistaken! Spinel crystals grow in “octahedrons” like garnets and diamonds, which look like two little pyramids stacked on top of each other. Funnily enough, some red spinels have been nicknamed “Jedi spinel” because they glow so much they are “untouched by the dark side.” East Africa is home to some of the most sought-after spinels: from lavender and purple from Lukande, Tanzania to hot pink from Mahenge, Tanzania. 

Spinel is an alternative birthstone for the month of August.

When you shop with ANZA Gems, you're making a difference and giving back to East African mining communities. ANZA supports artisans at every level, beginning with purchasing directly in-country in Tanzania and Kenya, then using US and Kenyan artisanal cutters–a number of them women–to facet the gems into one-of-a-kind creations. At least 10% of your purchase will directly benefit education, vocational training, community development and other initiatives supporting miners where they need it most through the nonprofit Gem Legacy. 

SKU #7005