Black Spinelle : Origin, significance and virtues

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What is spinel?

Black spinel is a member of the gemstone family. This natural stone was first described by George Bauer, a German scientist considered to be one of the fathers of modern mineralogy. Its name comes from the Latin "spina", meaning "thorn". It was named for the sharp shape of its crystals.

The origin of spinel

This black stone has been known since antiquity. At that time, Afghanistan was already trading in it.
Many civilizations considered it a magical stone, used in initiations or shamanic ceremonies. In Burma, it is said to have been cut by spirits.

Before the advent of gemology, it was confused with other black stones such as onyx, black tourmaline or jet (red spinel varieties were confused with ruby).

Black spinel is magnetic. For this reason, it was used as the central pivot in ships' compasses, which indicated north to sailors, enabling them to stay on course and orient themselves correctly. It played a crucial role in the Great Discoveries.

What are the properties of spinel?

It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively hard gemstone. Its density is between 2.5 and 4.1 g/cm³.

What color is spinel?

As its name suggests, black spinel has a deep black color. It is opaque.
However, there are other spinel varieties with an extensive color palette, such as red, blue, green, pink and even yellow spinel.

Where can I find black spinel?

The main deposits of black spinel are found in Afghanistan, Burma, Brazil, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, the USA and France.

What are the virtues of black spinel?

In lithotherapy, it is considered a stone of protection, capable of chasing away bad vibes to make way for well-being. It is also defined as an anchoring stone, helping you to keep your feet on the ground and focus on the present moment.

By associating it with the root chakra, also known as the base chakra, it helps to foster a sense of anchoring, security and stability. It also repels negative energies and creates an energy shield around the wearer.

How do I clean and purify spinel?

You can purify it by running it for a few moments underspring water or byfumigating it with white sage. If your black spinel is mounted on a pendant or jewel primer, this second method is ideal.
To recharge, simply expose it to moonlight overnight. For greater effectiveness, place it on a crystal cluster or amethyst geode.

How to use black spinel

The combination of gold and black always adds just the right amount of chic to a look. Ideally, then, you should create jewelry with primers and jewelry components in Gold Filled (rolled gold), Gold Plated, 925 Sterling Silver Gilded or Stainless Steel Gilded. For those who prefer a silvery hue,Stainless Steel and925 Silver will enhance the dark, luminous color of spinel.

Which stone to match with this black stone? In lithotherapy, the black spinel stone can be associated with different gemstones of the same color or with a complementary power:

• Labradorite is renowned for its play of shimmering colors and mystical properties. Combined with black spinel, it can enhance intuition and perception.
• Rock crystal is considered a healing and harmonizing stone. Combined with black spinel, it can promote energetic balance and purification.
• Amethyst is often used to promote mental clarity and spirituality. Combined with black spinel, it can help balance the mind and emotions.
• Hematite is renowned for its anchoring and protective powers. Combined with black spinel, it can help you stay grounded and protect you from negative influences.
• Black obsidian and spinel are two stones that protect and eliminate negative energies. This combination can help create a truly powerful energy shield.