The Difference Between Blue Spinel And Sapphire

Blue spinel and sapphire are two of the most popular gemstones that have been used in jewelry for centuries. While the two stones may look similar, they are actually quite different. Knowing the difference between blue spinel and sapphire can help you determine which stone is best for your jewelry needs. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between blue spinel and sapphire so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next piece of jewelry.

What Is Spinel?

Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium and aluminum oxide with a hard crystalline structure. It occurs naturally in many colors, including red, blue, purple, green, yellow, brown, and black. Green quartz is an example of a type of spinel that is commonly found in jewelry. Spinel has been used in jewelry since ancient times and is now becoming increasingly popular due to its vibrant colors, durability, and affordability. Spinel is often found with diamonds and other gemstones in engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, and other pieces of jewelry.

The Difference Between Blue Spinel And Sapphire

When it comes to gemstones, the two most popular options are blue spinel and sapphire. Both of these stones are beautiful and have their own unique characteristics. However, they can look quite similar, so it is important to understand the differences between them.

Blue spinel is known for its intense, deep blue hue and is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. It is a relatively soft stone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it vulnerable to scratches and other damage. Spinel also has an interesting shimmering effect known as adularescence, which gives it a unique depth and sparkle.

Sapphire, on the other hand, is much harder than spinel, measuring 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes sapphire one of the most durable gemstones available, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. While blue sapphire is perhaps the most popular color, it can also come in shades of yellow, green, purple and pink.

When compared side by side, the differences between blue spinel and sapphire become quite apparent. Blue spinel tends to be lighter and brighter in color than sapphire, while sapphires tend to be deeper and more vibrant in color. Additionally, sapphire often displays small inclusions which are not present in spinel. The cost of these stones will depend on their quality and size, but sapphire is typically more expensive than spinel due to its higher durability.

Green quartz is another gemstone which is sometimes confused with blue spinel and sapphire. It has a much lighter green hue than either of these stones and is far less valuable. In terms of durability, green quartz measures 7 on the Mohs scale which makes it softer than both blue spinel and sapphire.

In conclusion, when selecting a gemstone, it is important to understand the differences between blue spinel and sapphire. Knowing what makes each stone unique will help you decide which one will best suit your needs and budget.

Which Stone Is Right For You?

When it comes to choosing a gemstone, there are many factors to consider. Blue spinel and sapphire both have their own unique characteristics, so it’s important to think about what matters to you when selecting the right gemstone. For example, if you’re looking for something special and unique, you might want to consider blue spinel, as it is less common than sapphire. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something classic and timeless, sapphire may be the better option for you. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gemstone with a hint of color, green quartz might be a good choice. Ultimately, the decision of which stone is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.