0.26 Ct. Pink Spinel from Tanzania

This listing presents a single transparent 0.26 carat pink spinel from Tanzania, cut in an asscher octagon faceting style, dimensions 4.18 x 3.31 x 2.23 mm, cutting style faceted, clarity grade slightly included as evaluated at eye level, color intensity recorded as intense, polish graded excellent, enhancement none, origin Tanzania. The proportions yield a length to width ratio of approximately 1.26, indicating a modestly elongated asscher profile, and a measured depth of 2.23 mm which corresponds to a depth of approximately 59.6 percent when calculated against the average of length and width. These objective measures describe a stone that balances table area and pavilion depth to favor both color saturation and controlled light return. The 0.26 carat weight and the physical size make this gem well suited for delicate center settings, accent pieces, and custom designs where precise geometry and strong color are desired.

The asscher cut on this spinel is executed as a series of concentric step facets on the crown and pavilion, producing the classic hall of mirrors effect that characterizes high quality step cuts. The crown facets form broad, planar steps that intersect at crisply defined girdle corners, while the pavilion steps taper toward a modest culet, enabling layered internal reflections that manifest as distinct flashes rather than the scintillation pattern typical of brilliant cuts. Because the faceting is geometrically regular, light enters through the table and crown, reflects off the planar pavilion steps, and returns in a pattern of parallel flashes and deep contrasts, which enhances the perception of depth in the intense pink color. The excellent polish and careful facet junctions maintain clean facet windows, minimizing light leakage and preserving sharp contrast lines within the optical field.

From a gemological perspective, spinel offers favorable optical and mechanical properties that complement the asscher geometry of this piece. Spinel is optically isotropic within the cubic system, so the stone will not show pleochroism, and it typically exhibits a refractive index in the range 1.718 to 1.736 and a dispersion near 0.018, values that support vivid color saturation with measured flashes of white light from the step facets. Specific gravity for spinel generally lies around 3.58 to 3.61, and the material rates about 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which gives the stone good resistance to abrasion for daily wear when set properly. The slightly included clarity grade means minor natural features are present at eye level, however the step cutting and the intense color intensity tend to mask small internal characteristics, allowing the gem to present strong color uniformity and attractive optical contrast when mounted.

The Natural Gemstone Company presents this pink spinel as a natural, untreated specimen from Tanzania, and the combination of asscher geometry, precise proportions, and excellent polish makes it desirable for collectors and designers who value technical cutting quality. Recommended settings include four prong, bezel, or low profile gallery mounts that preserve the stone geometry while protecting the girdle and corners, or halo settings that accentuate the asscher faceting with surrounding melee to enhance apparent size and light return. For care, routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is effective, and because spinel is robust and untreated, many standard jewelry cleaning methods are acceptable, however as with any slightly included gem, avoid extreme mechanical shock and consult a professional before using high energy cleaners. For further technical documentation, additional images, or bespoke setting advice from The Natural Gemstone Company, please contact our gemological team.