Meaning & symbolism
Spinel is a magnesium aluminium oxide that crystallises in sharp cubic octahedra, often in the same marble deposits as ruby. Red spinel is coloured by chromium, like ruby, and for centuries it was sold as ruby: the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown and the Timur Ruby are both spinels. It was recognised as a separate mineral in 1783 and became a modern August birthstone in 2016.
How to use it
Worn as jewellery or held in meditation on the root chakra when you want to restore energy after a hard period. These are traditional uses, not medical advice.
Cleansing & care
Mohs 8, no cleavage. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe for untreated spinel. Store apart from softer stones, which it will scratch.
