Spinel – The Gem That Can Survive a Fire

Here’s an interesting fact: spinel is one of the few gemstones that can survive a fire completely intact. If, heaven forbid, a fire breaks out, most gemstones risk cracking, clouding, or even melting. But not spinel.

Why is spinel almost indestructible?

Its melting point is around 2850°C, which is higher than most gemstones. For comparison, sapphires and rubies melt at 2000°C, while quartz loses its structure at just 1700°C.

It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it resistant to scratches and mechanical damage.

It lacks cleavage, unlike diamonds, which have natural planes of weakness. This significantly reduces the risk of splitting upon impact.

Which gemstones won’t survive a fire?

Opals lose their water content and turn into colorless glass.

Topazes crack easily when exposed to sudden heat.

Emeralds lose their transparency and can develop fractures.

Turquoise, malachite, and amber simply burn.

Spinel is the perfect gemstone for those who value durability. It withstands not only the test of time but also extreme conditions. So if you’re looking for something truly resilient and reliable, spinel is the way to go.

Olga Bachurina,
Co-Founder of Venus in Libra,
Certified by GIA & Gübelin Academy