Lot 206. 12.08 carats Burmese Cushion-shaped Red Spinel and Diamond Ring. Estimate：HK$1,100,000 - 1,500,000 (US$ 140,000 - 192,000). Courtesy Tiancheng International.

Centring on a cushion-shaped red spinel weighing 12.08 carats, decorated with brilliant-cut diamonds extending to the shoulders, the diamonds together weighing approximately 5.65 carats, mounted in 18 karat white and yellow gold. Ring size: 6¾

Accompanied by Lotus premium report numbered 7286-0573, dated 3 March 2016, stating that the 12.08 carat spinel is natural, Red colour, of vivid saturation and medium-deep tone, of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating or treatment; 

GRS report numbered GRS2016-020348, dated 10 February 2016, stating that the 12.08 carat spinel is natural, Vivid Red colour, of Burmese origin, with no indication of thermal treatment. 

Royal Gem - Spinel

Spinels, a group of gemstones that have a long history of being incorrectly identified as rubies, are spectacular specimens that are in high demand among gem collectors. It wasn’t until the mid- 1800s when spinels were found to have different quality characteristics compared to rubies. As a result, many famous “rubies” on some of the world’s finest crown jewels are actually spinels. The most famous examples are the magnificent 170-carat Ruby of the Black Prince set on the Imperial State Crown of England, and the Timur Ruby, which weighs more than 350 carats and is today part of the private collection of Queen Elizabeth II.

Spinels are very rare whilst the gem-quality ones are even rarer. Among various coloured spinels, red ones are the most desirable. To be offered in Tiancheng’s Spring Sale includes a series of natural untreated spinel Jewellery; amongst, a 12.08-carat natural Burmese untreated red spinel (Lot 206) is the most appealing one. This precious gemstone is of vivid colour and very good clarity. Its attractiveness and fascination makes it a great option of a collector’s spinel collection.