If there is one habit that human beings canāt ditch, itās a comparison between two stunning entities. No domain is untouched from the outrageous scrutiny as well as comparison and the realm of gemstone is no exception. In the vivacious and uncanny domain of gemstones, ruby and spinel are often subjected to painstaking comparison because they exhibit similar hues and some properties, however, both gems differ from each other vastly.
Ruby belongs to the corundum mineral family and is celebrated for its gigantic value in the international market as well as spellbinding red color hues. On the other hand, Spinel is an indispensable member of the magnesium/Aluminium minerals with the chemical formula MgAlāOā and encloses the cubical crystal system. Most naive gemstone enthusiasts cannot differentiate between an original ruby stone and spinel because the resemblance is next level. However, both gemstones differ profoundly from each other when it comes to physical properties, value, and astrological benefits.
To make our valued and ardent readers aware of the prime differences between ruby and spinel, we have curated a comprehensive blog post on ruby vs spinel on the basis of varied pointers like origin, physical properties, price, astrological benefits, and popularity that will eradicate their confusion and enlighten them like nothing else.
Table of Contents
Ruby vs Spinel: Origin
Ruby
The name “ruby” is derived from the Latin word “rubeus,” meaning red. Rubies are primarily composed of aluminum oxide with the presence of chromium, which gives them their iconic red to deep red color hues. The most sought-after shade is a deep, vivid red with a hint of bit purple color which is often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.”
The most renowned source of rubies historically is Burma (now Myanmar). Burmese rubies are highly prized for their intense color and exceptional quality. Other significant sources include Thailand, Sri Lanka, and more recently, Mozambique. Each location imparts unique characteristics to the rubies it produces, making them distinguishable to gemstone connoisseurs.
Spinel
Spinel is one of the most fascinating and mundane gemstones with a diverse range of colors, though it is most famous for its red hues, which can rival those of rubies. The name “spinel” is believed to come from the Latin word “spinella,” meaning little thorn, referring to its pointed crystal formations.
Spinel is often found in association with other gemstones and minerals. It is composed of magnesium aluminum oxide and can come in various colors, including red, pink, blue, violet, and black. The presence of different trace elements determines the coloration of spinel.
Historically, spinel stone was often confused with chuni stone and pink sapphire due to their similar appearances. One of the most famous spinels in history is the “Black Prince’s Ruby,” which is set in the Imperial State Crown of England and is believed to have been owned by various kings throughout history.
Some of the most significant sources of spinel encapsulates Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania. Myanmar, in particular, is renowned for producing spinels with vibrant red and pink colors.
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Ruby vs Spinel: Color
Rubies and spinels can often be confused with one another as they tend to occur in similar vivid red hues. However, while the color range of natural rubies includes purplish-reds and orangey-reds, spinels display pure chromaticity meaning their red coloration is void of secondary hues.
The source of the red color in rubies and spinels differs as well. The rich crimson red of rubies is caused by the presence of chromium. The more chromium a ruby contains the more saturated its red coloration. Spinels, on the other hand, get their red color from magnesium and iron impurities.
While exceptional spinels can achieve an equally bright red to top-quality rubies, they lack the subtle secondary purple and orange undertones. Trained gemologists can often distinguish rubies from spinels with the aid of a Chelsea color filter which suppresses the red wavelength of light. Through the filter, spinels will appear black or gray as their color is a pure red, while rubies will retain a purplish-red or orangy-red appearance.
Inclusions inside the gemstones also differ between spinel and ruby. Identifiable irregular liquid “fingerprints” are often seen in Old Burmese rubies. Spinels lack these liquid inclusions but they can display two-phase inclusions containing a crystal with a moving bubble.
So in summary, while red spinels and rubies can masquerade as one another, rubies display secondary purple and orange hues and tell-tale natural fingerprint inclusions. Spinel reds are clean, pure chromatic reds void of secondary colors. With training and the right equipment, color distinctions can help gemologists confirm a red stone’s true identity.
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Ruby vs Spinel: Physical Properties
Ruby and spinel are both gemstones that belong to the family of oxides and are popular choices for jewelry. While they may share some similarities, they also have distinct physical properties that set them apart. Let’s explore the physical properties of ruby and spinel.
Ruby
1. Chemical Composition:
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, and its chemical composition is aluminum oxide (Al2O3) with chromium impurities that give it its vibrant red color.
2. Color:
The most prized color for rubies is a deep, rich red, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood red.” The presence of chromium is responsible for the red hue.
3. Hardness:
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of 9. This makes it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear.
4. Clarity:
Natural rubies often contain inclusions, which can affect their clarity. However, some rubies with minimal inclusions are highly valued.
5. Luster:
Rubies exhibit a strong vitreous (glass-like) luster, adding to their overall brilliance.
6. Origin:
Fine rubies are found in various locations, including Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, and other regions. Burmese rubies, in particular, are highly sought after.
Spinel
1. Chemical Composition:
Spinel is an oxide mineral composed of magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4) or, in some cases, iron can replace magnesium. Unlike ruby, it lacks chromium.
2. Color:
Spinel occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, purple, and more. It’s known for its vivid and intense hues.
3. Hardness:
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for various types of jewelry. While slightly less hard than ruby, it still provides good resistance to scratches.
4. Clarity:
Spinel is often free from visible inclusions, contributing to its overall transparency. This characteristic makes it an attractive gemstone.
5. Luster:
Spinel displays a vitreous to metallic luster, depending on its specific composition and color.
6. Origin:
Spinel is found in various locations worldwide, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. Some famous spinel specimens have historically been mistaken for other gemstones due to their similarities.
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Ruby vs Spinel: Astrological Benefits
Rubies
In Hindu & Vedic astrology, natural unheated rubies are associated with the ever-glowing Sun as the color red represents the brilliant fire of the solar orb. Rubies are believed to have an energizing and vitalizing effect on Sun-ruled souls.
Astrologically, rubies can be especially beneficial for those born under the signs of Leo and Aries. As ruby amplifies the innate strengths bestowed by the Sun, wearing or carrying this gemstone talisman can help Leos gain more radiance, vitality, leadership abilities, confidence, dignity, and success. For Aries natives ruled by exalted Mars and the Sun, rubies can increase ambition, drive, and courage, and promote career advancement. Generally, they also bestow good health and help banish destructive anger or ego issues.
In Vedic astrology, natural rubies with a clear bright red hue are associated with the planet Sun and the solar plexus chakra. Wearing rubies is believed to boost leadership skills, dignity, vitality, confidence, wealth, and manifestation abilities.
Spinel
While spinels also display a rich red color, they have a different astrological significance than rubies. Red spinels are linked to the planet Mars, which rules over Tuesday. Mars governs physical strength, warfare, surgery, masculine energy, sex drive, research, anger, courage, and headstrong determination.
For astrological purposes, wearing a spinel talisman can be especially helpful for Aries and Scorpio natives as Mars rules their charts. Spinels may increase vitality, ambitions, persistence, and success for these signs. However, they may also amplify excess anger, aggression or passion.
In summary, rubies amplify solar energies which are helpful for Sun-ruled Leos and Aries folks. Spinels intensify dominant Mars energy – making them risky for some fiery signs but useful for calculated Aries or Scorpio warriors who need martial strength. Overall rubies carry a brighter solar energy while spinels carry a more aggressive martial energy.
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Ruby vs Spinel: Price
Ruby:
1. Rarity:
Rubies are renowned for their striking red color which is often associated with passion and vitality. The most valuable rubies display a deep and pure red hue with minimal secondary tones.
Natural and untreated rubies of exceptional quality are incredibly rare, which significantly contributes to their high price.
2. Origin:
Rubies from certain origins, such as Burma (Myanmar), are highly coveted and command premium prices. The geographical source plays a crucial role in determining the value of a ruby.
3. Size and Clarity:
Larger rubies with fewer inclusions are more valuable. Clarity, color, and carat weight collectively influence the overall price of a ruby.
4. Treatment:
Many rubies undergo heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity. Untreated rubies, especially those with vivid colors, are considered more valuable.
Spinel:
1. Color Diversity:
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, violet, and more. While red spinel can resemble ruby, spinel’s diversity allows for a broader price range.
2. Rarity:
Red spinel, though less rare than rubies, can still be relatively scarce. Certain colors of spinel, such as cobalt blue and hot pink, are considered more valuable due to their rarity.
3. Size and Clarity:
Similar to rubies, larger and cleaner spinels command higher prices. However, spinels are generally less included than rubies, contributing to their attractiveness.
4. Treatment:
Spinels are typically untreated, enhancing their natural appeal. This can be a significant factor for individuals seeking gemstones in their natural state.
Price Comparison:
Rubies tend to be more expensive, especially for top-quality stones. The combination of rarity, deep red color, and prestigious origins contributes to their premium pricing.
Spinels offer a more affordable alternative, catering to a broader range of budgets. While some spinels can be expensive, they generally provide a cost-effective option for those seeking vibrant and eye-catching gemstones.
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Ruby vs Spinel: Popularity
Ruby and spinel are both popular gemstones, but rubies tend to be more popular and valuable overall:
Rubies have been prized for centuries as one of the big four precious gemstones along with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. They are synonymous with bright red color and are considered the ultimate red gem.
Spinels can come in a variety of colors like red, pink, purple, blue, etc. Red spinels in particular resemble the color of rubies. However, rubies have more brand name recognition among gem consumers.
In terms of rarity, fine-quality ruby specimens are rarer than similar quality spinels especially at larger sizes. The finest color saturated “pigeon’s blood” rubies with few inclusions command very high prices.
The durability and hardness of rubies and spinels is similar. However, the rich crimson and purple-red shades of rubies is more desirable to many gemstone purchasers than spinel’s range of red hues.
Recently, spinels have become more popular due to new gemstone sources and celebrity publicity. But rubies still dominate in terms of total global demand and the high prices top quality rubies can achieve at auction compared to spinels.
In summary, prized red rubies are more prestigious and collectable, driving significantly higher prices for top specimens compared to even the finest red spinels. But both remain beautiful and desired gem types in their own right.
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