Design Details

Cobalt Spinel, Hauyne & Diamond Ring
Platinum, Size 6.5
1 Cobalt Spinel Oval 2.24 ct. (8.38x6.68x5.31mm) - Natural
84 Hauyne Rd 0.71 ctw. - Natural
51 Diamond Rd 0.39 ctw. (F+/VS+)
1 Alexandrite Rd 0.01 ctw. - Natural 

Unique Design Traits

Cobalt spinels are treasured for displaying a vibrant and electric shade of blue, caused by an increase in cobalt as a trace element and reduction of iron in its crystal system.

This color mirrors that of the hauyne used to accent it in this particular ring.

Both gemstones used in this ring are incredibly rare, generally, and are rarely treated. In addition, both gemstones are rarely set into fine jewelry, making this a true collector's piece.

Gemstone Details

Spinel

Centuries ago, in Sanskrit writings, spinel was called the daughter of ruby, adored, yet somehow different. The Crown Jewels of Great Britain are graced with spinels and have resided in the regalia of kingdoms throughout history. 
 
Found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka and East Africa, spinel comes in a variety of colors including oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves and vivid reds. While common in sizes up to two carats, larger gemstones can also be acquired. 
 
Spinel is thought to protect the owner from harm, to reconcile differences, and to soothe away sadness. However, the strongest reasons for buying a spinel are its rich, brilliant array of colors and its surprising affordability. 
 
One of the most under-appreciated gemstones, spinel is coveted by collectors and gemologists for its range of hues and spectacular optical properties. Spinel was recently added as an official birthstone for August, raising its exposure to new heights. Recognized and prized for its hardness, brilliance, and unlike many other gem types, spinel is rarely treated or enhanced in any way. Many believe the name spinel comes from the Greek word for ’spark’. This name suits spinel well since it is a singularly refractive stone and is formed with cubic crystals similar to diamond, which gives this gemstone remarkable brilliance and fire. 
 
Spinel is the birthstone for August and gift for the 22nd wedding anniversary.  

Hauyne

Hauyne is an extremely rare mineral and even rarer as a faceted gemstone; first discovered in the early 19th century in southern Italy. A member of the sodalite group of minerals, it is commonly found in volcanic areas, such as among the Vesuvian lava flows on Monte Somma. It was named for the “father of crystallography” Abbé Rene Just Haüy. Hauyne is noted for its electric blue color, although it has been found in other colors, such as white, grey, yellow, green and pink. It is also noted for its perfect cleavage and brittleness, ranked as a 5 1/2- 6 on the Mohs scale, which makes faceting the material difficult and thus rare. It is one of the possible constituent minerals of Lapis Lazuli. Today the most well-known locality for Hauyne is the Eifel Mountains of Germany.