11.07 Ct. Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This single, transparent red spinel presents a compelling combination of size, color, and craftsmanship. It weighs 11.07 carats and measures 14.61 x 11.99 x 6.86 mm, cut into a classic emerald shape that emphasizes both depth and clarity. The color intensity is vivid, a rich saturated red that reads true and lively under natural daylight and controlled display lighting. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, meaning that this gem appears clean to an unaided eye yet retains natural internal character under careful scrutiny. The polish is excellent, with crisp facet junctions and a smooth table that allow light to travel freely through the stone. There has been no enhancement to this spinel, and its origin in Ceylon, modern day Sri Lanka, contributes to its desirability among collectors and connoisseurs.

To an informed buyer the technical attributes of this spinel underline why it holds value. Spinel is singly refractive with a refractive index that typically sits near 1.72 and a specific gravity around 3.60, attributes that give it a bright, lively face up appearance and a pleasing heft on the hand. Its hardness close to 8 on the Mohs scale makes it suitable for daily wear when set properly, and its vitreous luster imparts enduring brilliance. The emerald cut chosen for this stone is a responsible, deliberate choice that maximizes color saturation while preserving weight. Step facets in this cut create large planes of color that showcase the vivid red without fragmenting the hue, and the excellent polish enhances the gem without obscuring its natural internal features. The very slightly included clarity grade is consistent with fine natural spinels from Sri Lanka and is often preferable to heavily included stones that require optical compromise.

The journey of this spinel from mine to market reflects a blend of traditional sourcing and modern gemological stewardship. The rough was recovered from Ceylon alluvial deposits where local miners apply careful, time tested techniques to separate gem material from matrix and gravel. Once identified as an exceptional piece, the rough was channelled through reputable channels to reach experienced lapidaries who considered orientation, color zoning, and inclusion patterns when planning the emerald cut. Cutting and polishing were executed by master craftsmen who prioritized symmetry and table proportions to achieve the excellent polish and optimal light performance seen in the finished gem. After cutting the stone underwent a thorough examination by our gemology team to confirm its natural origin, the absence of treatments, and the clarity and color grades assigned at eye level. Professional photography and hand modeling were used to illustrate scale and wearability, and the stone was then entrusted to The Natural Gemstone Company for cataloguing and presentation to discerning buyers.

For collectors, jewelers, and investors this red spinel represents a rare opportunity. Large, vivid, and untreated spinels from Sri Lanka command strong interest because they combine pleasing aesthetics with reliable provenance and durability. Compared to other red gemstones this spinel offers an alternative to ruby with its own optical signature and market dynamics, and its eye level cleanliness elevates its suitability as a centerpiece in bespoke rings or statement pendants. The Natural Gemstone Company provides documentation of origin and treatment status and offers consultative support for mounting and insurance appraisal. Care for this spinel is straightforward, using gentle soap, warm water, and a soft brush for cleaning, and routine inspection of the mounting when set. If you desire additional magnified images, a formal gemological report, or assistance designing a setting that complements the emerald cut and vivid red color, our team is available to guide you through each step.