0.85 Ct. Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

One exquisite offering from The Natural Gemstone Company is this transparent 0.85 carat oval violet spinel, a gem that captures attention with its subtle, regal hue and refined proportions. Measuring 5.46 by 5.18 by 3.88 millimeters, this stone is cut in a mixed brilliant style that balances scintillation with a crisp, clear window to the heart of the gem. The clarity is graded as very very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, which means the gem reads visually clean and luminous in real world wear, without the need for magnification to appreciate its purity. The color intensity is described as light, yet the tone is elegant and sophisticated, offering a nuanced violet that can read cool blue violet in certain lights, and a warmer purple in others. The polish is excellent, so light glides across the facets with a mirror like finish, maximizing brilliance. Importantly for buyers who value natural character and long term value, this spinel is unenhanced, with no heat treatment or other modifications, and it originates from Ceylon, a source renowned for producing high quality spinels with an appealing balance of color and clarity.

When compared to other gemstones that compete for the same attention in fine jewelry, this violet spinel stands apart in several meaningful ways. Against corundum family stones such as sapphire, spinel offers a different kind of brilliance and a slightly different refractive response that can make the color appear more lively under varied lighting. Unlike many sapphires which are commonly heat treated to optimize color, this spinel is offered in its natural state, a point of differentiation for collectors and gift givers who prioritize untreated stones. Compared to tanzanite, which can fade in color with prolonged exposure to strong light or require careful wear due to pleochroism, spinel is remarkably stable, offering consistent tone and less sensitivity to wear conditions. Against amethyst, which is more common in the market and generally softer in perceived prestige among gemstone connoisseurs, violet spinel has superior hardness and durability, making it more suitable for everyday wear in rings and engagement settings. The mixed brilliant cut used here combines the depth and fire of a brilliant style with the clean table presentation of a step influenced pavilion, creating a stone that both sparkles and displays color evenly, an advantage over simpler cuts that can dull the color or show windowing.

Value is central to smart gemstone buying, and this 0.85 carat violet spinel offers compelling quality relative to many market alternatives. In the current market, spinel continues to gain favor among collectors because of its rarity in certain hues, and a natural Ceylon violet is notably less common than ordinary pink or red spinels. The weight of 0.85 carat sits in a practical range that allows for a bold presence without the premium jump many gems experience above one carat. The dimensions of 5.46 by 5.18 millimeters translate to a face up presence that makes the gem visually impactful on a finger or pendant, while the excellent polish and mixed brilliant cut ensure maximum return of light and sparkle. From a craftsmanship perspective, the cutter has balanced depth and spread to avoid dead zones or excessive windowing, which enhances perceived color and brilliance. For buyers considering long term value, an untreated spinel from Ceylon is a prudent selection, because treatments often affect resale perceptions and untreated natural gems remain favored in specialist markets. When set in platinum or 18 karat gold, this stone will compare favorably to similar size sapphires at a competitive price point, while offering a more uncommon color story and a natural provenance that many find desirable.

As a gift, this violet spinel will make a striking and memorable choice for someone special, whether the occasion is an anniversary, a milestone birthday, or a thoughtful surprise to mark a personal achievement. The gem’s soft violet hue is romantic and versatile, flattering a wide range of skin tones and pairing beautifully with cool white metals and warmer yellow or rose golds. The images provided show the stone on a finger, illustrating its elegant scale and how it captures light in everyday environments, conveying both subtlety and presence. Choosing this spinel from The Natural Gemstone Company means gifting not only an attractive jewel, but also a story of origin, natural beauty, and ethical sourcing. Our clients often tell us that an untreated Ceylon spinel feels more intimate and authentic than more familiar options, because the gem’s natural color and clarity are part of its charm. For those who prefer a ready to gift presentation, we offer complimentary guidance on settings that enhance the stone’s best attributes, and we can work with you to suggest mounting styles that will create a bespoke heirloom piece. Giving this violet spinel is a way to express refined taste, meaningful thought, and an appreciation for rarity, ensuring the recipient receives something that is both beautiful today and cherished for years to come.