4.01 Ct. Spinel from Burma (Myanmar)

This Burmese blue spinel is presented as a transparent cushion shape weighing 4.01 carats, with precise dimensions of 9.12 by 7.91 by 6.26 millimeters. The length to width ratio of 1.15 yields a slightly rectangular cushion profile that reads as elegant and substantial on the finger, and the measured pavilion depth produces a depth percentage of approximately 73.5 percent based on the average diameter. These proportions reflect a cutter intent on preserving original rough weight while achieving balanced optical performance, a typical compromise in high value spinel from classic Myanmar material. The mixed brilliant facet scheme was chosen to maximize return from a gem with strong inherent saturation, and the excellent polish and crisp facet junctions confirm professional lapidary execution suitable for fine jewelry settings.

The cut details merit close attention for buyers who value facet architecture, and the term mixed brilliant is applied here to denote a brilliant faceted crown combined with a pavilion that incorporates both modified step and indexed brilliant facets. The crown placement and table size were configured to moderate windowing given the stone s dark color intensity, so the table is proportioned to provide observable scintillation rather than a flat, absorption dominated face. Facet counts are consistent with modern cushion mixed standards, producing interplay between larger broad flashes and secondary pinpoints of scintillation, and the superior polish enhances contrast with sharply terminated facet planes, allowing facet reflections to remain lively even in subdued lighting.

Color characteristics are central to the appeal of this specimen, and the stone exhibits a dark color intensity that reads as a deep, cool blue with slight inky undertones in lower light. Origin from Burma Myanmar provides context, since material from that region is prized for dense, saturated hues and a certain velvet depth to the tone. This spinel has been subjected to heat treatment, a standard and stable enhancement in spinel that deepens and homogenizes blue saturation without introducing foreign substances. Heat treatment here serves to reduce minor zoning and to harmonize color across the pavilion and crown, improving face up appearance while maintaining durability. Spinel lacks strong pleochroism, so the color remains consistent across viewing angles, and cutting choices were made to trade minimal light return for the preservation of this rich saturation.

Clarity has been graded as very very slightly included evaluated at eye level, indicating that the stone is effectively eye clean, while microscopic inspection reveals inclusions that are both diagnostic and characterful. Under magnification the gem displays minute pinpoint crystals and subtle growth zoning, sometimes seen as faint angular growth planes, and occasional healed feathering confined to non critical facet junctions. These internal features do not compromise toughness or the faceted surfaces, and they function as unique identifiers much like a fingerprint, enabling provenance tracking and future identification should documentation be required. For connoisseurs and gemological examiners, the pattern of microscopic inclusions and growth structures provides both an authenticity signature and a narrative of the crystal s formation history in the Burmese pegmatitic environment.

For practical use and setting recommendations, the stone s dimensions and depth favor settings that protect the deep pavilion while allowing the table to present the rich blue face up. A low to medium profile four or six prong head will highlight the cushion outline and permit light to enter the crown facets, while a bezel can emphasize the gem s classic cushion silhouette and protect the girdle. The photographs included demonstrate the visual scale on a finger, where a 4.01 carat cushion presents as a substantial statement gem, particularly in simple solitaire designs that allow color and faceting to dominate. At The Natural Gemstone Company we can provide additional documentation and high magnification imagery on request, and we welcome inquiries from gemologists and experienced buyers seeking matching pairs or bespoke mounting advice, given this spinel s combination of exemplary origin, thoughtful cutting, and clarity features that both authenticate and add character to the stone.