1.14 Ct. Greyish Violet Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This transparent 1.14 carat round greyish violet spinel is a refined example of color and cutting precision, presented by The Natural Gemstone Company. The stone measures 6.49 by 6.54 by 3.82 mm, and it has been faceted with a mixed brilliant cut to balance maximum light return with a pleasing table and pavilion relationship. The intense color intensity gives the gem a strong and engaging presence, while the greyish violet hue offers a sophisticated and versatile tone that performs well in both contemporary and classic designs. The polish is excellent, which enhances surface luster and contributes directly to the perceived brilliance and depth of color. No enhancement has been applied to this spinel, which preserves its natural character and assures collectors and connoisseurs that the color and clarity are inherent attributes, rather than results of treatment. Origin is Ceylon Sri Lanka, a source with a long established reputation for producing fine spinel and other gem materials, and provenance from this region is often regarded positively by educated buyers who value both geological pedigree and traditional cutting expertise.

Clarity is graded as very slightly included at eye level, a designation that indicates only minimal inclusions are visible without magnification to a practiced eye under normal viewing conditions. Typical inclusions in spinel can include rutile needles, small crystals, or fingerprint like features, but in gems with a very slightly included grade these characteristics do not significantly interrupt the stone s transparency or its ability to transmit light. When examined under magnification the internal features can provide useful information about the gem s natural formation and origin, and they can also add to the stone s identification profile without detracting from its aesthetic appeal. The mixed brilliant cut enhances the optical performance by combining facets that maximize scintillation with facets that deepen color saturation, so the result is a lively stone that still shows an even and intense body color. The careful cutting proportions and excellent polish further ensure that reflections are clear and crisp, and that the spinel s face up appearance remains lively and engaging in both strong and soft lighting conditions.

Durability is a key consideration for any gem intended for regular wear, and spinel ranks at about 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which places it well above common gem materials like quartz and garnet, and just below corundum which includes ruby and sapphire. This relative hardness means the stone resists scratches from everyday contact far better than softer gems, making it an excellent choice for rings and bracelets where durability is most important. Compared to sapphire and ruby which are rated 9 on the Mohs scale, spinel offers very good abrasion resistance while presenting a unique and often more rare palette of colors, particularly in greyish violet tones. For context, diamond is 10 on the same scale and remains the hardest material, but its different optical properties and higher market position make spinel a practical and attractive alternative for those seeking natural color without extensive treatment. To preserve the excellent polish and structural integrity of this spinel we recommend routine gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals and extreme thermal shocks, and choosing protective settings for rings that place the girdle or bezel slightly raised to reduce edge impact. The lack of enhancement and the Ceylon origin add to the gem s collector value, and The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind this piece with full disclosure and a commitment to responsible sourcing and accurate grading. This spinel s size, 1.14 carat, its balanced proportions, and its intense greyish violet color make it particularly well suited for a sophisticated center stone in a bespoke ring or a refined pendant, offering both aesthetic appeal and long term wearability for the discerning buyer.