0.94 Ct. Purplish Blue Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This offering is a transparent 0.94 carat oval purplish blue spinel, precisely measured at 6.50 by 5.33 by 3.96 millimeters, faceted in a mixed brilliant style designed to balance scintillation with color depth. The cutter has employed a brilliant facet arrangement on the crown combined with a modified pavilion that favors broad, controlled facets, producing lively return on movement while concentrating the inherent dark color intensity. Proportions yield an overall depth of approximately 67 percent relative to the average diameter, a proportion that intensifies face up saturation without sacrificing light return, particularly desirable for a darkly saturated spinel. Clarity is graded very very slightly included at eye level, indicating inclusions are minute and do not disrupt transparency or sparkle under normal viewing. The stone displays uniform purplish blue hue distribution, no detectable pleochroism, and an excellent polish that highlights facet junction precision and symmetrical outline, attributes consistent with skilled lapidary work originating from Ceylon, Sri Lanka. No enhancement has been applied, confirming the natural state of color and clarity, and the combination of cut and finish maximizes optical performance while preserving inherent material characteristics.

From a durability standpoint spinel ranks at eight on the Mohs hardness scale, offering robust resistance to abrasion and suitability for frequent wear. To place that in context spinel is harder than quartz which is seven, comparable to topaz which is eight, and moderately softer than corundum varieties such as sapphire which are nine, with diamond at ten at the top of the scale. That hardness makes this spinel well suited to rings and everyday jewelry, provided sensible setting and care choices are observed. For ring applications we recommend protective bezel or well guarded prong settings to minimize edge impact and preserve the highly polished facets, and routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush to maintain brilliance, avoiding harsh mechanical abrasion. Given the absence of enhancements ultrasonic cleaning is generally acceptable but should be used with care if the mounting contributes stress, and professional inspection after aggressive wear is prudent. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the provenance and workmanship of this piece, and we are available to provide additional imagery, proportion diagrams, and verification documents to support informed selection.