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SPINEL - Comes in a variety of colors. Augments renewal, allowing us to refresh and restore ourselves time and time again. It is associated with hope, will and purpose, encouraging us to overcome all obstacles.

Gemstone : Black Spinel

Birthstone Month :Black Spinel is not associated with any particular birthstone month.

Chemical Symbol : MgAl2O4

Chemical Make-up : Black Spinel is a Magnesium Aluminum Oxide, or Magnesium Aluminate.

History & Lore :
It is not known for certain how the name Spinel originated. The most common suggestion is that it may have derived from the Latin word 'spina' meaning a thorn, possibly referring to its fiery color or the sharp pointed crystals that are found within some Spinels. Spinels were often referred to as 'balas rubies' in ancient times. 'Balas' or 'Balascia' is a territory in Northern Afghanistan known as Badakshan where Spinels may have first been discovered. This area in the Middle Ages was an active gem-producing region that had discovered large beautiful red to pink Spinels that were thought to be rubies and considered the best rubies of their time.

Many royal crown jewels thought to be rubies have actually turned out to be red Spinels. The Black Prince's Ruby on the British Imperial State Crown is a 170-carat red Spinel. The Timor Ruby that has the engraved names of the Mogul emperors on its face was once thought to be a Ruby as well. This magnificent 352-carat stone is in fact a red Spinel and is now owned by Queen Elizabeth.

Spinels are associated with love and help the wearer to put their ego aside and become devoted to another person. Spinel also encourages passion and is said to increase the duration of one's life.

Black Spinel in particular is said to be a protective stone and helps re-establish relationships and resolve issues. It is also believed to relieve sadness.

Black Spinel is mined mainly in Thailand (Boi Ploi, Kanchanaburi), where it is known as “Nin”. There are also known deposits in Africa, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka.