Ruby or Spinel? Discover the Hidden Gem Secrets!

When it comes to red gemstones, nothing can beat the beauty of ruby stone. But do you know spinel is another sought-after gem that gives tough competition to this king of gemstones? Is it only the color that makes them look similar, or are there other similarities? Do they also differ in some aspects? Let's find out:

Red Spinel vs Ruby: Origin and Formation

Spinel belongs to the group of oxides and occurs in various colors, such as black, red, blue, green, orange, pink, and purple. Red spinel is one of the most vibrant and famous gemstones and looks like rubies. It belongs to the group of oxides, and its chemical formula is magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4). The significant difference comes here in the chemical composition of the two. Ruby stone is called Manik in Hindi and is part of various corundum mineral families. The chemical composition of this stone is Al2O3. Read more about this here: What is the Chemical Composition of Ruby and Sapphire?

The formation of red spinel stone takes place in metamorphic and igneous rocks. The process involves metamorphism and magmatic activities. Manikya Ratna is also found in the same rocks. It is formed through crystallization, where aluminum and oxygen elements come together to form corundum crystals. The trace element responsible for giving both stones their beautiful red color is chromium.

Ruby vs Spinel: Color is the Key

Red spinel color ranges from orangish-red to purplish red, whereas ruby stone color is vivid red with a tint of purple. The most valued Manik Ratna are from Burma (Myanmar), showing the rarest pigeon's blood red color. This hue is the only characteristic feature of Burma rubies. These Myanmar gems with medium tone and high saturation are valued the most. The ruby color chart ranges from vivid red to pinkish red and bluish red.

Learn More: The Enigmatic Color of Ruby Stones: Significance and Symbolism

Like red spinel stone, Manikya Ratna also has a primary color of red, and secondary overtones include pink, blue, and purple. It isn't easy to distinguish between ruby and spinel as both feature the same color. However, you can look for the secondary overtones. Manik stones with orange and pink overtones are less valued.

Spinel vs Ruby: Clarity Does Matter

Burmese rubies have eye-clean clarity, which means they are free from any inclusions. Such gemstones account for high prices. However, inclusions are an essential criterion for evaluating whether Manik is original. This is because these imperfections are natural to the stone, and almost all of them show these features. Needles are common inclusions found in corundum. On the contrary, spinel showcases inclusions like fingerprints.

These gems are similar in that they get heat treatment to enhance their color and brilliance.

Red spinel and ruby difference:  Fluorescence and Hardness test

Spinels glow intensely in UV light, whereas Burma rubies also glow. Since synthetic ruby and spinel also glow in UV light, it is difficult to spot the originality of the stone. Thus, there are alternative methods to tell if ruby stone is real. These include a hardness test, which you can also do at home.

As per the hardness test, scratch the stone. If you are able to scratch it, this might be a fake stone. Manik Ratna's hardness is high, and thus, it is more scratch-resistant. Red Spinel stones, on the other hand, are less durable compared to natural rubies. This is another significant difference between these two gemstones. Find out how you can know whether your gem is a real ruby or not here: How To Differentiate between Glass filled ruby vs natural ruby

Spinel vs Manikya Ratna: Know the Symbolism

Spinel is often mistaken for ruby due to its similar color but is admired for its significance. It symbolizes energy revitalization and happiness and is known to ward off evil energy. In many cultures, it is considered the “stone of love” and is also a valued gem in engagement and wedding rings. Along with the peridot, it is the birthstone for August.

Ruby's gemstone symbolizes passion, energy, vitality, and strength. It is also the stone of love like red spinel and is a preferable gem in engagement rings today. Manik is the birthstone for July.

Ruby vs Spinel: Astrological Benefits

Gemstones harness the power of the planet they are associated with and benefit the wearer. Natural Ruby is for the planet Sun and is believed to offer the wearer enhanced leadership qualities, courage, and confidence. If your birth chart shows weak Surya Graha placement, wearing a Manik stone ring will help you overcome obstacles and achieve success. You can pair it with pearl to get more benefits in various aspects of your life, professionally and personally. It is believed that it also attracts wealth. If you want to know  more about this read here: Is Ruby a Lucky Stone?

Astrological benefits of red spinel stone relate to reducing fatigue and providing protection from negative energy. Thus, if you are a sports person or someone who requires more physical stamina for work, this is a great gem you can wear. This will help you overcome fatigue and increase your productivity. For maximum benefits, pair it with garnet or red jasper.

Price Comparison of the Red Gemstones

Original ruby stone price starts from INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 per carat and even more, depending upon the stone's quality. Pigeon red blood rubies are the most valuable and expensive stones. Unlike these stones, spinels are affordable and make the best substitute for ruby for jewelry. However, from an astrological point of view, Manik is the most powerful gemstone. Enchanted by the beauty of this stone know how you can purchase this better here: 10 Useful Tips To Know Before Buying A Ruby Gemstone

To conclude, spinel and Manikya Ratna are hidden treasures beneath the earth and are valued for their impressive color and clarity. Buy these natural gemstones online from Navratan to use them for their unique purposes.

Let's jot down the differences here: