1.17 Ct. Spinel from Tanzania

This exceptional violet spinel is a transparent, precision cut gemstone weighing 1.17 carats, presented in an Asscher cut octagon shape with exact dimensions of 5.75 x 5.73 x 4.28 mm, clarity grade very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, medium color intensity, and an excellent polish. The combination of Asscher faceting and the octagon outline produces a stepped pavilion and a square oriented crown that emphasize clarity and color in equal measure, making it an ideal cut to showcase the crystalline purity and internal structure of spinel. Spinel is an isometric mineral, singly refractive, and naturally durable with a Mohs hardness that makes it well suited for everyday jewelry, and this stone is unenhanced, meaning its color and clarity are entirely natural with no heat treatment or other laboratory enhancements applied. Origin plays a major role in desirability, and this violet spinel comes from Tanzania, a region known for producing some of the most sought after spinels in a range of hues, and the medium intensity violet in this specimen is balanced and pleasing, offering color presence without overwhelming saturation, while the excellent polish and precise faceting ensure lively light return across the table and step facets.

Clarity and inclusions are an important part of this gem story, and the clarity grade very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, describes a stone that appears clean on casual inspection, with small, natural internal characteristics that do not detract from beauty, but rather serve as unique identifiers and evidence of natural formation. Typical inclusions in Tanzanian spinel can include tiny mineral crystals, faint growth zoning, or minute feather like features, and in this particular stone those very slight internal signatures act like a fingerprint, allowing connoisseurs and gemologists to distinguish it from synthetic material and to track its identity over time. Inclusions can also aid in origin assessment when combined with other data such as trace element chemistry and visual habit, and the absence of indicators of heat enhancement or diffusion further supports the provenance and natural state of the gem. For the educated buyer, these subtle internal features add character and provenance to the stone, they validate its nativity to the earth, and they make each example singular, so that a collector or client receives not just a color and carat weight, but a distinct mineralogical specimen with a verifiable story.

From a practical and investment perspective this spinel is compelling for several reasons that will matter to an informed purchaser. The one point one seven carat weight and compact yet substantial dimensions allow for versatile use in fine jewelry, from a solitaire engagement ring to a bespoke pendant or pair of studs, and the Asscher cut will sit well in both modern and vintage inspired settings because its geometry emphasizes both table brilliance and the step facet flash that collectors admire. The fact that it is unenhanced and originates from Tanzania enhances its market appeal, because natural, untreated spinels in pleasing violet tones are relatively scarce when compared to more common gem colors, and their rarity contributes to long term desirability. Care is straightforward due to spinel hardness, and routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is appropriate, while ultrasonic cleaning is usually acceptable but should be judged on the setting and any inclusions that may be sensitive to vibration. When purchasing from The Natural Gemstone Company buyers can expect transparent information on origin, cut, and clarity, and we recommend independent gemological verification for those seeking formal documentation, our team can assist with bespoke mounting options, secure shipping, and laboratory grading referrals, and for the client who values natural character, clear provenance, and refined cutting, this Tanzanian Asscher cut violet spinel presents a rare opportunity to own a gem that combines scientific interest with timeless wearable beauty.