3.46 Ct. Purplish Blue Spinel from Burma (Myanmar)

This is a transparent 3.46 carat cushion shaped purplish blue spinel, measuring 8.02 by 7.92 by 6.27 millimeters, with a mixed brilliant cut, dark color intensity, and a clarity grade of slightly included when evaluated at eye level. The gem exhibits an excellent polish and has been heat treated, originating from Burma Myanmar, a source long prized for producing richly saturated spinels. Spinel is singly refractive with an index around 1.712 to 1.717 and a robust specific gravity near 3.60, which contributes to a substantial feel in jewelry as well as a strong interaction with light. Slight eye level inclusions in this example do not materially detract from its appearance when set, and in fact they authenticate natural origin for discerning buyers. The dark purplish blue tone is rare and desirable, offering a velvety depth that appeals to collectors and those seeking a sophisticated, less flashy color profile than a sapphire while retaining excellent durability for everyday wear.

The mixed brilliant cut on this cushion spinel is engineered to maximize the stone's inherent optical properties, with a brilliant facet arrangement on the crown to enhance scintillation and small flashes of light, and modified step facets in the pavilion to deepen and intensify the body color. This combination balances light return with color saturation, so the gem displays lively pinpoint sparkle from the crown view, while the pavilion facets act like reflective chambers that return light through the table and crown in a controlled manner, preserving the purplish blue richness. The excellent polish reduces surface light leakage and enhances contrast between facets, increasing apparent brilliance. Heat treatment applied in a stable, professional manner has refined tone and clarity without compromising structure, making this piece a practical and valuable addition to any collection. For buyers seeking provenance and quality, The Natural Gemstone Company offers this Burmese spinel as a statement gem that combines classic cushion form, thoughtful cutting to exploit spinel optics, and the deep, collectible color that sets it apart in both bespoke jewelry and investment minded portfolios.