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Spinel
Greg Polley
Specimen | Catalog Number | Locality | Weight |
---|---|---|---|
Spinel | NMNH G11728 | Tajikistan | 40.25 ct |
Spinel gems are often mistaken for their more famous corundum cousin, the ruby. Many of the world's most famous "rubies" are in fact red spinels. Contributing to the confusion is the fact that spinel and corundum have similar chemical compositions and are commonly found in the same geological deposits. Pure spinel is colorless, but trace amounts of chromium, iron, and other elements in spinel crystals produce a stunning array of colorful gems. The Kuh-i-Lal mines in Tajikistan are one of the oldest known sources of spinel gems, and are still producing stones, such as this magnificent 40.25-carat spinel. This gem is exceptional for its size, intense purple-red color, and great clarity.