Updated as of June 2026
Spinel
Long mistaken for ruby in royal jewels, spinel is associated with energy, renewal, and vitality.
Price range$50 to $1,500/ct
Hardness (Mohs)8
ColorsRed, Pink, Blue, Purple, Orange
BirthstoneAugust
AltGems Score How we score
7.4/10
Spinel pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 8) for everyday wear
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (August)
Cons
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
- Quality varies widely, so compare before buying
Spinel is durable enough for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry of every kind.
Explore Spinel
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestSpinel jewelry
Spinel by cut
Spinel ring styles
Spinel solitaire ringSpinel halo ringSpinel three stone ringSpinel hidden halo ringSpinel vintage and antique ringSpinel bezel ringAll styles
Spinel by metal
Spinel in yellow goldSpinel in white goldSpinel in rose goldSpinel in platinumSpinel in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Hard and durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe for untreated stones.
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Where to buy Spinel: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Spinel?
Long mistaken for ruby in royal jewels, spinel is associated with energy, renewal, and vitality. It rates 8 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in red, pink, blue, purple, orange.
How much does Spinel cost?
Spinel typically runs about $50 to $1,500 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Spinel price guide for detail.
Is Spinel good for everyday jewelry?
Yes. At Mohs 8 it is durable enough for rings and daily wear with normal care.
What is the AltGems Score for Spinel?
Spinel earns an overall AltGems Score of 7.4 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Spinel?
Hard and durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe for untreated stones.