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Lot 4155
"Ruby" Spinel
30 June – 9 July 2021, 10:00 PDT
Los AngelesSold for US$3,570 inc. premium
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"Ruby" Spinel
Burma
The most sought-after spinel is the deep red variety that closely resembles ruby. These two gemstones can be very difficult to distinguish. Until the late 19th century, there was no distinction made between Ruby and red Spinel as their appearance was identical and they were found in the same localities. Many famous old "rubies" were later discovered to be in fact Spinel. The most famous example of this, "The Black Prince Ruby", forms the centerpiece of the royal crown of England. It was much later determined to be spinel. The term "ruby spinel" is an old one, still used in the gem trade to designate spinels that are so red that they resemble rubies. The present, fine pear-shaped stone bears those qualities. Weighing approximately 2.43 carats and measuring 10.95 x 6.67 x 4.80mm
The most sought-after spinel is the deep red variety that closely resembles ruby. These two gemstones can be very difficult to distinguish. Until the late 19th century, there was no distinction made between Ruby and red Spinel as their appearance was identical and they were found in the same localities. Many famous old "rubies" were later discovered to be in fact Spinel. The most famous example of this, "The Black Prince Ruby", forms the centerpiece of the royal crown of England. It was much later determined to be spinel. The term "ruby spinel" is an old one, still used in the gem trade to designate spinels that are so red that they resemble rubies. The present, fine pear-shaped stone bears those qualities. Weighing approximately 2.43 carats and measuring 10.95 x 6.67 x 4.80mm