0.80 Ct. Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 0.80 carat oval purplish red spinel from Ceylon Sri Lanka measures 6.43 x 5.07 x 3.39 mm, and is finished with a mixed brilliant cut that balances color retention and light performance. The gem is transparent with an eye clean clarity grade as evaluated at eye level, and it exhibits intense color saturation together with an excellent polish. There has been no enhancement, and the piece presents the natural crystal properties expected of a quality Ceylon spinel. The mixed brilliant facet arrangement concentrates return of white light through the crown while maintaining depth of color, producing a lively combination of overall brilliance and focused scintillation without sacrificing the gem s underlying hue. This specimen is presented and verified by The Natural Gemstone Company, reflecting the company s emphasis on accurate description and natural provenance.

When compared to other gemstones within its category of red and purplish red spinels and to similar red gem materials, this spinel demonstrates characteristic reflective behavior of spinel family stones. Spinel is isotropic, which means it does not show birefringence, and that uniform optical character contributes to even light distribution and consistent color across the table, in contrast to doubly refractive stones such as corundum where light can split and produce different internal reflections. Against rubies and other corundum, which typically have a higher refractive index and can display stronger inherent brilliance and dispersion, this spinel offers a more balanced, steady return of light with crisp facet reflections and pronounced flashes from the mixed brilliant cut. Compared with garnets, which can show more deep, inky appearance in saturated tones, this spinel maintains cleaner translucency and brighter facet contrast. The excellent polish and eye clean clarity enhance the gem s reflective qualities, allowing the mixed brilliant design to deliver both sustained brightness and attractive scintillation, while the intense purplish red color remains the dominant visual attribute. For clients seeking a natural, untreated spinel that combines durable wearability with refined optical performance, this 0.80 carat Ceylon stone represents a clear example of the material s characteristic balance of color and light.