Garnet and Black Spinel Ring | Sterling Silver

While it might be common belief that all garnet is red, like almandine (a deep red, purplish-red, reddish-purple, or brownish-red color) and rhodolite (an intensely saturated purplish-red to vivid pinkish-red color), this is nothing more than a misconception. There are a wide variety of garnet species with stones coming in every color, including stones that visibly change color under different lighting conditions. For example, hessonite garnet is an orange-brown to honey-yellow variety, and is moderately common. Others, like the brilliant green "tsavorite" and "demantoid" varieties, are far more rare, commanding higher prices in the trade.

Because the term "garnet" does not refer to one single species of stone, care instructions vary. Green demantoid garnet requires the most care, sitting at 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Red almandite and pyrope, orange spessartite, and green tsavorite are known to be harder varieties, ranking a durable 7.5 on the hardness scale. While other varieties fall somewhere in between, most are durable enough to wear without any special care or mind. Garnet jewelry can safely be cleaned in chemical jewelry cleaner unless otherwise noted on the label.

Spinel is a gemstone that naturally forms in a wide variety of colors. Red is the most desirable color, followed by vivid cobalt blue, then vivid hot pink and bright, saturated orange. Violet, purple, lavender, and black stones are most common. While natural green spinel may possibly exist in special collections, it is common industry belief that all green spinel available to the market is either synthetic or tampered with (by inserting a thin disc of green glass between two pieces of colorless spinel). We find it prudent to stand by this belief unless otherwise proven by a GIA certificate. Black spinel can typically be told apart from other black stones with a super magnet due to its high iron content - it will be faintly magnetic. Red spinel is often confused with ruby, though red spinel tends to be brighter and more light-reflective.

Natural spinel ranks 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a great choice in jewelry for everyday wear. Spinel jewelry can be cleaned in chemical jewelry cleaners as well as ultrasonic cleaners. As with most jewelry, it is especially safe to clean with warm water, mild soap, and a soft bristled toothbrush.

Your order will be processed and shipped within 4 business days. All shipments are insured by the United States Postal Service, and most orders of $500 or more will require signature confirmation upon delivery.

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Item: Garnet and Black Spinel Ring | Sterling Silver

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