5.37 Ct. Greyish Violet Spinel from Burma (Myanmar)

This transparent 5.37 carat cushion shape spinel presents a rare greyish violet hue that is unusual for stones of this size and quality. The gem measures 11.15 x 9.57 x 6.29 mm, and it has been faceted with a mixed brilliant cut to maximize both depth and scintillation. Clarity is evaluated as slightly included at eye level, and the overall polish is excellent, allowing for optimal light return across the pavilion and crown facets. The color intensity is described as dark, and the combination of deep tone with transparent clarity produces an elegant and somber presence that differs markedly from the more common red, pink, and blue spinels. Origin is Burma Myanmar, and there has been no enhancement, which contributes to the rarity and collector interest of this example. This description is supplied by The Natural Gemstone Company.

The cutting style and dimensions were chosen to balance face up size and light performance. The cushion shape, allied with a mixed brilliant cutting scheme, yields broad table facets that present the greyish violet color evenly, while the brilliant pavilion facets enhance fire and dispersion. At 5.37 carats the gem occupies a size class that is infrequently encountered in spinel material that also retains strong transparency and symmetry. Slight inclusions are present on close inspection, but they do not materially diminish the gem when viewed in standard jewelry settings, and they serve as natural identifiers that corroborate the unenhanced origin. The excellent polish indicates careful lapidary work, with facet junctions and girdle finishing executed to high standards, which is especially important for collectors and fine jewelry designers seeking stones that require minimal reworking.

When compared to other spinels on the market, this greyish violet color is distinctly uncommon. Spinel colors most frequently observed at larger sizes are red and certain saturation ranges of pink and blue, and greyish tones, particularly those with violet modulation and dark intensity, are seldom seen at five carats and above with transparent clarity. Burmese spinel, historically prized for its rich hues and good crystal quality, is increasingly rare in larger sizes because most significant material has been produced in smaller crystals or has been allocated to trade segments focused on more marketable hues. The absence of enhancement further elevates the specimen, because many spinels receive heat treatment to modify color or transparency. Collectors and connoisseurs place premium value on unenhanced Burmese material, especially when it displays a unique color profile and sound gemological parameters.

Practical considerations for setting and care reflect the gemological profile of this spinel. Spinel ranks favorably on the Mohs hardness scale and is suitable for most jewelry applications including rings, which tolerate everyday wear when properly set. The cushion shape and dimensions make this stone adaptable to classic four prong settings, custom bezels, and vintage inspired mounts, each of which will display the greyish violet tone differently depending on metal color and lighting conditions. Care instructions are straightforward, nonabrasive cleaning with warm water mild detergent and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaning when inclusions are present. Documentation of origin, weight, dimensions, cut style and enhancement status is available, and potential buyers are encouraged to retain provenance records for insurance and future valuation purposes.

The Natural Gemstone Company offers this spinel with full disclosure of its characteristics and origin, reflecting a commitment to transparency and gemological accuracy. For those seeking a specimen that combines uncommon size with a rare greyish violet color and unenhanced Burmese provenance, this cushion shaped spinel represents a distinctive option. Its combination of transparency, excellent polish, mixed brilliant cutting, and dark color intensity presents an aesthetically compelling and technically sound example of high quality spinel. Interested parties who prioritize natural origin, minimal treatment, and distinguished color should consider the long term appeal and relative scarcity of such material in the current market.