Ruby vs Spinel Clarity
Ruby and spinel are often mistaken for each other due to their similar red hues, but their origins and formation differ significantly. The Ruby vs Spinel Clarity comparison reveals that rubies often contain inclusions, while spinels tend to have higher clarity and fewer visible imperfections. Understanding Ruby vs Spinel Clarity is essential for gem enthusiasts and buyers, as it plays a key role in evaluating the visual appeal and value of these two gemstones.
1. Geological Formation
- Ruby: A variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), rubies form in metamorphic rocks like marble and basalt-related deposits. Their red color comes from trace amounts of chromium.
- Spinel: A separate mineral (MgAl₂O₄) that forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, often alongside rubies. Spinel’s red color is also due to chromium but lacks the strong fluorescence seen in rubies.
2. Major Sources and Locations
| Country | Ruby Sources | Spinel Sources |
| Myanmar (Burma) | Mogok and Mong Hsu produce world-famous “pigeon blood” rubies. | Mogok is also known for top-quality red and pink spinel. |
| Sri Lanka | Known for pinkish-red rubies from the Ratnapura and Elahera regions. | Produces a range of spinel colors, including vibrant red, pink, and blue. |
| Mozambique | A leading source of fine rubies, especially from Montepuez. | Some spinel deposits, but not as commercially significant. |
| Thailand | Historical source, but rubies today are mostly heat-treated imports. | Some spinel found in the same regions as rubies. |
| Vietnam | Produces vibrant rubies from Luc Yen and Quy Chau. | Luc Yen also yields high-quality spinel, especially pink and red varieties. |
| Tanzania | The Winza region has ruby deposits. | Mahenge is famous for bright pink to red spinel. |
| Afghanistan | Fine rubies from the Jegdalek mines. | Spinel is found in the same mountainous regions. |
| Tajikistan | High-quality rubies found in the Pamir Mountains. | Also a significant source of spinel. |
3. Rarity and Availability
- Ruby: Generally rarer, especially high-quality untreated rubies from Myanmar, which command premium prices.
- Spinel: More abundant but historically overlooked, though high-quality red spinel is now gaining popularity.
Conclusion
Rubies and spinels often form in the same geological environments, leading to confusion between the two. While rubies are more famous and valuable, spinel—especially from regions like Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania—is increasingly appreciated for its beauty and rarity.
To gain deeper insight into how ruby colors are assessed, we invite you to visit our comprehensive Ruby Color Grading Guide for more details.