3.26 Ct. Greyish Blue Spinel from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This transparent greyish blue spinel presents as a precisely faceted oval, weighing 3.26 carats, with dimensions of 9.63 by 7.57 by 5.82 millimeters, and a mixed brilliant cutting style that maximizes return of light and overall brilliance. The clarity is graded as very slightly included at eye level, indicating only minimal natural characteristics that do not detract from visual appeal when viewed unaided. Color intensity is described as dark, delivering a deep, cool blue with subtle grey overtones, and the polish is excellent, creating crisp facet junctions and a smooth, reflective surface. This specimen is untreated, with no enhancement applied, and it is of Ceylon, Sri Lanka origin, which is notable for long established marble hosted gem deposits. The combination of weight, precise proportions, and cutting style makes this spinel suitable for fine jewelry settings where depth of color and optical performance are priorities.

The formation of this spinel began millions of years ago within the ancient terrains of Ceylon, Sri Lanka, in metamorphosed carbonate rocks that were subjected to elevated temperatures and directed pressure during regional metamorphism. Magnesium and aluminum bearing sediments, originally deposited as limestones and impure carbonates, reacted with infiltrating fluids that carried trace transition elements, allowing the magnesium aluminium oxide framework of spinel to crystallize. Over geologic time, conditions favored the growth of well developed crystals, and trace iron imparted the blue to greyish blue hue observed in this specimen. Tectonic activity and subsequent erosion exposed the host marbles, allowing gem quality crystals to be liberated and concentrated in secondary deposits. The mixed brilliant faceting applied by skilled cutters enhances the natural interplay of light within the crystal lattice, revealing the stone s internal character while preserving its natural origin and integrity. The Natural Gemstone Company provides this detailed provenance as part of our commitment to accurate, factual representation of each gemstone.