Spinel

Colour: Shades of red and blue

Symbolism: Vitality, Passion, Good Health

Gemstone family: Corundum

Interesting facts: The famous "Black Prince's Ruby" which forms part of the Crown Jewels of England, is, in fact, a red spinel

Hardness: Moh’s Scale 7.5-8.0 (hard)

Geography: Asia, North America and Africa

Cleaning procedure: Clean using warm soapy water. Must not be cleaned ultrasonically or by steam cleaning

Value factors: Intensity of colour; Brilliance and “life” of stone; Size of stone