Spinel may not be as famous as ruby or sapphire, but once you’ve seen one sparkle in the light, you never forget it. It scores 8 on the Mohs scale and is quite tough, making it a durable gem for jewelry. It’s also not as brittle as some gems, which adds to its wearability. Just like any lesser-known gem, spinel has a way of quietly stealing hearts.

And like anything we love, it deserves to be taken care of gently, regularly, and with a little bit of know-how.

Here’s how to keep your spinel jewelry looking its best:

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Spinel doesn't mix well with strong cleaning agents, bleach, or acids. When cleaning your home or applying beauty products like perfumes and lotions, remove your spinel jewelry first. These substances can dull the gem’s surface or damage the setting.

Gentle Cleaning Works Best

To clean your spinel, simply use warm water, a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush or cloth. Gently scrub the gem and setting, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners unless a professional jeweler says it's safe for your piece.

Store It Safely

Even though spinel is relatively hard, it can still scratch or be scratched by other stones. Store your spinel jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box, away from harder gems like diamonds or sapphires.

Keep an Eye on Settings

Regularly check that the stone is secure in its setting. If you notice any movement or damage to the prongs, have it checked by a professional jeweler to avoid losing the gem.

Limit Prolonged Sunlight

Spinel is stable under normal conditions, but like many gems, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can sometimes cause slight fading, especially in certain colors like pink or violet. When not wearing it, store your jewelry in a cool, dark place.

Spinel is a gem that deserves the spotlight, not just for its beauty but for its resilience. With a little mindful care, your spinel jewelry will remain a sparkling part of your collection for a lifetime and beyond.