Spinel or lal has long been considered a subspecies of corundum. Therefore, Marco Polo called the mineral deposit Ruby Mines. Crystals have always been highly prized. Not red sapphires, but spinel adorns Monomakh's hat. Topped with sparkling crystals and the crown of Catherine II.
Spinel is rare in nature. One of the most valuable materials for jewelers makes it a variety of shades and amazing shine. The spinel family is formed by a rock of magnesium oxide and aluminum ions.
Appearance
The name of the gem was given by the Latin word "spina", that is, "thorn" or "thorn". The stone was named for the shape of the crystals. Marco Polo was the first to mention an unusual bright mineral as a jewelry material during his trip to Palmyra.
Natural crystals are distinguished by the correct form. Usually these are dodecahedrons or octahedrons. There are spinel in orange, pink, green and black tones. The color is determined by impurities. The rarest stones are red, orange and neon blue.
In addition to dividing by color, the mineral is defined in the groups of ordinary, noble, and also zinc crystals. Noble ones are distinguished by almost complete transparency, the absence of foreign inclusions. The group includes deep red ruby spinel.
Varieties
The orange-red crystals are called rubicella. A fragile gem of red and pink shades - "ruby-balais". Purple minerals are oriental amethysts, and blue ones are called spinel sapphire. The group also includes specimens of green, blue shades, as well as with a color reverse.
The common ones include ceylonite, pleonast. The stones are brown, greenish or black. The rarest specimens have a greenish-black color.
Crystals of zinc spinel or ganite contain impurities not of iron and zinc, but not of magnesium. Blue samples may have a magenta cast. Chrome spinel, picotite, has a rich and thick black color. The intermediate ones include gano- and chlorospinel.
Properties
The gem is distinguished by magical properties. It is valued for:
- the ability to attract love and protect a family from adversity, therefore it will become a talisman for those who dream of family happiness;
- attracting good luck: the amulet increases confidence, provides support for loved ones;
- disclosure of creative potential: jewelry is especially shown to people in public, as it enhances communication and oratory skills;
- the ability to travel to protect from dangers, bestow endurance and lead to people who give shelter to wanderers or show the way;
- protection from negativity.
The rings are recommended for musicians and artists, and pendants with necklaces are the talismans of singers. So that the stone does not change the energy from positive to negative, esotericists advise not to wear jewelry all the time. The best amulets are those set in gold.
The mineral is contraindicated for Cancers, as it can increase the suspiciousness and nervousness of the bearer of the sign. The rest of the zodiac signs can safely wear spinel jewelry, but the ideal talisman for Leo.
Care
The natural mineral is distinguished from the synthetic analogue by the presence of defects in the form of streaks and inclusions, a quality certificate and a considerable cost.
It is advisable to protect accessories from touching other jewelry:
- It is required to store spinel from household chemicals and mechanical stress.
- Before performing work that can cause the destruction of the integrity of the stone, the jewelry is removed.
- Brush the crystal weekly with a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water. Wipe clean with a soft, lint-free cloth.
At least a couple of times a week the gem should "rest".
