Spinel:

I am Spinel, the brilliant flame. For hundreds of years I have been mistaken for another. Marco Polo, in error, named me Balas Ruby when they brought me from the mountain, but in truth I am Spinel. The Persians engraved my lovely face with the names of their shahs. In the fourteenth century, I was stolen from a Moorish king and presented to the Black Prince of England where today I sit in the royal crown. Keep me with you and I will reconcile your differences, soothe away your sadness and protect you from harm.

Qualities: Many have yet to be introduced to Spinel's radiant beauty. Spinel has long been confused with other gemstones; the Black Prince's Ruby and the Timur Ruby in the Crown Jewels of Great Britain are really Spinels! Among Spinel's other hues are pink, lavender, blue and mauve.

Care: Most gemstones, including diamond, require enhancement through cutting or treatment to be enjoyed as jewelry. Yet Spinel is one of the few gemstones that requires no treatment other than cutting to coax out its beauty.

Why Spinel? Though one of nature's most durable gemstones and an excellent choice for an active person, remove Spinel before engaging in activites that may cause wear such as sports, housework and gardening.