1.73 Ct. Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This transparent 1.73 carat oval blue spinel from Ceylon is a rare and immediate standout, with measurements of 8.68 x 6.14 x 3.92 mm. The gem is fashioned in an elegant mixed brilliant cut, designed to maximize scintillation while preserving depth of color, and it presents a vivid color intensity that captures light with a lively, saturated blue. Clarity is very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, which translates to a clean appearance to most viewers while retaining natural character from its origin. The polish is excellent, and importantly, the stone is completely natural with no enhancement, a quality that discerning collectors and designers prize for both aesthetic honesty and long term value.

Historically, spinel has a storied pedigree that few modern buyers appreciate at first glance. Several of the most famous red gemstones in the crown jewels and royal collections were actually spinels misidentified as rubies for centuries, a notable example being the celebrated Black Prince piece that taught the world to esteem spinel for its beauty. Compared to the legendary Kashmir sapphires and the tropical blues of classic Ceylon corundum, this Sri Lankan spinel offers a distinctive tonal quality that sits between sapphire and tanzanite, but with greater crystalline clarity and an altogether different crystal chemistry. Where the Hope Diamond commands attention for its size and celebrity, and where classic Burmese rubies are sought for their deep pigeon blood red, this vivid blue spinel offers rarity and a fresh historical echo. It brings the romance of royal collections with an understated modernity that many famous gems do not provide.

From a gemological and practical standpoint this spinel compares favorably to many more famous stones, while offering unique advantages. The mixed brilliant cut increases the gem light return and creates lively flashes even under indoor lighting, producing the kind of play that buyers often expect from higher priced sapphires and diamonds, but at a more accessible scale. Its clarity grade of very slightly included at eye level is better than many historically prized stones that contain obvious inclusions, which means the viewer experiences the color and brilliance without distraction. Being untreated elevates the value, because many sapphires and other colored stones on the market receive heating or diffusion treatments to enhance color, and these processes can complicate long term care or resale. Spinel also rates well for everyday wear, with a hardness that makes it suitable for rings and pendants, unlike softer stones that require constant protection. The Sri Lankan origin adds provenance, recalling the island nation core legacy in gem mining and cutting, while the excellent polish and precise faceting underscore expert lapidary work.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we present this 1.73 carat Ceylon blue spinel as a rare opportunity to own a gem that blends historical resonance, modern brilliance, and unenhanced purity. When compared to famous historical gems, it offers a narrative of rediscovery and elegance, and when placed against commonly sought stones it offers compelling value for its combination of vivid color, clarity, and treatment free status. This gem will sit beautifully in a bespoke ring setting, a refined pendant, or as the centerpiece of a custom piece that highlights its oval dimensions and lively mixed brilliant cut. For collectors who appreciate provenance and for buyers who seek a daily wearable showpiece with royal echoes, this spinel represents both sensible value and unique emotional appeal. Contact The Natural Gemstone Company to discuss mounting options, secure provenance details, and view this vivid Sri Lankan spinel in person, because its balance of beauty, rarity, and honesty makes it a superior choice compared to many other stones on the market.