Black Spinel Round Rose-Cut Cabochon

This round, rose-cut black spinel is a budget-friendly alternative to black diamond and other more expensive gemstones; the hardness makes it an appropriate choice for adding dramatic black gems to any type of jewelry, even those that get the most wear. Black spinel, an opaque variety of vitreous magnesium aluminum oxide, is relatively hard (8 on the Mohs hardness scale) and takes a high polish, giving it an appearance similar to more costly black gemstones. Because the gemstone is opaque it has no refractive brilliance but, with a high polish, the facets can reflect light for an attractive presentation. In folklore, black spinel is believed to be protective, assuaging sadness and rebuilding relationships. A favorite of yesteryear, this rose-cut faceting features a flat base (no pavilion) and a crown made up of triangular facets.