Spinel and corundum faceted beads bracelet

Colourful Spinel – Meaning

The name spinel comes from the Latin word “spinella,” meaning “small thorn,” after the sharp points of its octahedral crystals. Spinel occurs in a wide range of colours, from red and pink to shades of yellow, blue, or green. Red spinel closely resembles ruby and is even found in some of the same locations, which historically led to frequent confusion between the two — though spinel itself remains far less known to the public. Colourful spinel has long been prized in fine jewellery: some of the most beautiful spinels in the world are set in the St. Wenceslas Crown and the British Crown Jewels.

Scientists have found that some spinel crystals formed millions of years ago, under the intense heat and pressure of asteroid impacts — including, potentially, the asteroid linked to the extinction of the dinosaurs. Because these crystals are so durable, they’ve survived intact at impact sites ever since, helping researchers identify hidden craters and gain new insight into the history of Earth and our solar system.

Spinel is said to carry a strong, inspiring energy, acting as a catalyst for new ideas and ways of thinking. It’s known as the “Stone of Immortality” for its association with freshness and renewal. Spinel is also considered a stone of hope, offering encouragement to face life’s challenges, and is valued for its calming effect on stress and low mood.

Country of origin: Burma

Sapphire

Sapphire has long been associated with royalty, appearing in both the British and Czech crown jewels. This gemstone is a blue variety of corundum, the same gem family as red ruby. Sky-blue sapphire is a symbol of hope and faith, believed to bring protection, happiness, and spiritual insight, along with kindness and wise judgment. It’s said to help keep you on a spiritual path and support the self-discipline needed for deep concentration. Sapphire is also said to dispel low mood and lift your spirits, and is a popular stone among Reiki healers, believed to strengthen the power to heal through the human voice.

Ruby

Ruby, like blue sapphire, is a variety of corundum — an aluminium oxide stone that gets its colour from traces of chromium, iron, and titanium. Ruby’s intense energy is said to sharpen the mind, expand awareness, and boost concentration. According to legend, an eternal fire burns within ruby that can drive away negative people and protect the home from harmful forces. Like garnet, ruby is known as a stone of passion, said to deepen physical love between partners.

Country of origin: Burma

Element: Fire, Water

Zodiac sign: suitable for all signs

This bracelet harmonizes the Root, Heart, Throat, Third Eye and Crown chakras.