Spinel

Spinel, being one of the world’s most underappreciated gemstones, is named for the Latin word “spinella,” meaning “spine” referring to its pointed crystals. It comes in a variety of hues such as red, lavender, violet, blue, green, brown, black, yellow, and can even be colorless! Before the arrival of modern science, spinels were often mistaken for rubies. It wasn’t until after the 18^th century that the word ruby was solely used for the red gem variety of corundum. Popular mistakes like this are the Black Prince’s Ruby, the Timur Ruby, and many of Europe’s crown jewels. Spinel is known as a great imposter in the gem world and was confused for ruby in royal courts from Rome to China. It is believed that they encourage passion, devotion and longevity, as well as helping to de-stress and re-energize. Associated with the root chakra, it is thought to increase physical energy and stamina.