0.86 Ct. Bluish Grey Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This specimen is a transparent 0.86 carat cushion shape spinel, with calibrated dimensions of 6.62 by 5.00 by 3.37 millimeters, a mixed brilliant faceting schema, and an overall excellent polish. The length to width ratio of 1.32 yields a slightly elongated cushion outline, and the measured depth of 3.37 millimeters corresponds to a depth proportion of approximately 57.9 percent relative to the average of the length and width. Clarity has been evaluated at eye level as very very slightly included, indicating that inclusions are not apparent to the unaided eye and will not interfere with the gem s visual performance in most settings. Color is described as bluish grey with a light color intensity, an effect that benefits from the mixed brilliant cutting style and the excellent polish, and the stone is natural with no enhancement, originating from Ceylon Sri Lanka.

The mixed brilliant cut applied to this cushion shape combines precision placed brilliant facets on the crown and pavilion with modified step or girdle facets, to balance scintillation, fire, and color saturation. The crown facet arrangement optimizes return of white light and localized flashes of spectral color, while the pavilion s brilliant facet set enhances overall brilliance and minimizes leakage through the culet area. With a table proportion suited to the stone s dimensions and the stated depth proportion, this piece exhibits controlled light return so that the bluish grey hue reads evenly across the face up view, rather than concentrating near the facets. The excellent polish preserves facet junction sharpness and ensures crisp facet reflections, which is particularly important in a light intensity spinel, because surface quality directly affects perceived contrast and color saturation. The very very slightly included grade assessed at eye level means that under routine inspection for jewelry applications the gem presents as visually clean, while minor inclusions detected only under magnification can serve as natural fingerprint characteristics that confirm its origin and identity.

This spinel adapts to a wide range of jewelry settings, and its specific proportions inform technical choices during mounting. For a classic solitaire ring, a four or six prong setting with small rounded V tips at the cushion corners will secure the gem while preserving maximum light entry and protecting the delicate corners from mechanical impact. A halo setting with fine pavé diamonds will increase perceived diameter and introduce contrast that lifts the bluish grey tone, and the mixed brilliant cut will interact favorably with surrounding brilliants to create enhanced scintillation. Three stone configurations work well with tapered baguette or trapezoid side stones, which complement the cushion silhouette without overwhelming the center gem. For daily wear applications, a full or partial bezel provides superior edge protection, however a slightly open gallery or cutaway bezel will maintain light return and preserve sparkle. Tension settings can create a modern, suspended appearance but require precise sizing and an accurate seat for the 3.37 millimeter pavilion depth, and for bezel makers it is prudent to plan for at least the pavilion depth plus material allowance when creating the seat. For pendants and earrings, low profile prong mounts or semi bezel cups allow the mixed brilliant faceting to interact with ambient light, and matched pairs can be produced by selecting stones with similar table faceting and optical behavior rather than exact carat parity.

Metal choice and complementary stones will materially affect the final presentation. Platinum or white gold emphasizes the cool bluish grey tone and maximizes contrast with white accent diamonds. Rose gold introduces a warm background that shifts the perceived color balance towards steel blue, which can be desirable in vintage inspired designs. Yellow gold provides a distinct retro contrast and can be used to accentuate the grey component for a more dramatic look. Accent gemstones such as G color diamonds for brightness, small sapphires for tonal depth, or tiny champagne diamonds for warmth are all viable pairing options. At The Natural Gemstone Company we offer tailored design consultations that translate the technical proportions and mixed brilliant faceting of this 0.86 carat cushion spinel into practical mounting specifications, including recommended prong geometry, bezel wall thickness, and gallery clearance, so that the final piece respects the stone s optical performance and long term durability. If you require CAD renderings, matched accent stones, or advice on protective settings for everyday wear, we can provide precise recommendations based on the gem s dimensions, clarity grade, and faceting characteristics.