Anniversary: 22nd

The 18th-century poet William Cowper penned the famous words "Variety's the very spice of life that gives it all its flavour," and spinel certainly adds a dash of spice to any jewelry collection. This remarkable gem comes in red, pink, orange, purple, and blue, offering a spectrum of vibrant colors that rival the most coveted precious stones. Spinel is so beautiful that red varieties were historically mistaken for ruby—in fact, the famous 170-carat "Black Prince's Ruby" set in Britain's Imperial State Crown is actually a red spinel.

What makes spinel particularly appealing is its exceptional clarity and brilliance. Usually free of inclusions and available in crystals large enough to produce stunning gems, spinel ranks 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear. Along with peridot, spinel is also an August birthstone, though it's gaining recognition as a gem that deserves attention year-round. Red spinel with pure red to purplish red hues and medium to medium-dark tones are generally the most prized, though all colors offer their own unique charm. Unlike many gemstones, spinel is typically not treated, meaning the gorgeous color you see is exactly as nature intended. Perfect for those who want something truly special that combines rarity, beauty, and exceptional brilliance.