0.87 Ct. Grey Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 0.87 carat transparent grey spinel presents as a cushion shape with precise dimensions of 5.30 x 5.05 x 4.07 mm, offering a near square pavilion geometry that balances face up presence with wearability. Originating from Ceylon Sri Lanka, this natural spinel carries the unenhanced character that connoisseurs seek, with no treatments applied and an excellent polish that maximizes light return across facet junctions. The medium color intensity produces a stable grey tone that reads consistently under varied lighting, while the slightly included clarity evaluated at eye level indicates minor internal features that do not materially disrupt the gem aesthetic when set. The combination of weight, dimensions, and transparency make this stone an exceptional candidate for bespoke pieces where precise proportions and natural origin are desired.

The cutting style is faceted with a mixed brilliant cut configuration, employing a brilliant facet arrangement on the crown to optimize scintillation and a modified step or truncated pavilion that controls overall light leakage and color saturation. Mixed brilliant cuts are engineered to marry lively dispersion on the crown with depth controlled by pavilion facet angling, which in this specimen yields crisp facet crossroads and a well defined table plane. The excellent polish enhances facet edge integrity and reduces light diffusion, resulting in sharp flash and controlled scintillation. Given the slightly included clarity grade, the facet pattern has been oriented to mask inclusions along primary light paths, prioritizing clean face up appearance. Technical considerations such as girdle uniformity and pavilion depth contribute to the gem feeling balanced and visually larger than its carat alone might suggest.

From a custom jewelry perspective the cushion outline and compact dimensions provide substantial design flexibility. At 5.30 x 5.05 mm this cushion favors a traditional four or six prong solitaire for rings, where the rounded corners reduce snagging and the shallow to moderate depth of 4.07 mm sits comfortably in low profile settings. The near square ratio makes it especially suitable for symmetric designs such as halo mounts, where a precise bezel or millegrain seat will secure the stone without impeding face up light entry. For pendants and studs the stone strikes an excellent balance between presence and wearability, allowing elegant single stone pieces or paired compositions with accent melee. Setting recommendations include a calibrated bezel to protect the girdle on active daily wear pieces, a collet mount for minimal metal visibility, and a raised prong gallery for maximizing fire and brilliance. Consideration of orientation when setting, with crown facets aligned to typical sight lines, will further optimize perceived color and luster.

Provenance and finish are crucial for bespoke commissions, and The Natural Gemstone Company provides this spinel with documented dimensions, weight, and visual grading notes to assist jewelers and designers during the creative process. The Ceylon origin contributes a known geological signature and consistent medium color intensity that pairs effectively with both white and warm metals, enabling nuanced design choices from cool platinum engagements to warm 18 karat yellow gold accents. The lack of enhancement preserves structural integrity for precision setting, and the excellent polish ensures minimal rework when seat fitting or collet forming is required. For companion stones we recommend selecting accents with high transparency and matched refractive dispersions to complement the spinel without overpowering its grey tone. Clients seeking matched pairs or specific matching for a pair of earrings are encouraged to contact The Natural Gemstone Company for availability of comparable pieces and further imaging.