Most of the spinels of a “ruby-red colour” are produced from alluvial deposits in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and other countries. Other countries where spinel is mined include: Afghanistan, Nepal, Tajikistan, Australia, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Tanzania. While August’s newly designated official birthstone is widely recognized in its deep red variety, spinel is also available in a wide range of colours. Pure spinel is colourless, but impurities give rise to a spectrum of choices, from peach, pink and red to green, blue and purple.

Hematite is a dark, blackish gray opaque stone with a metallic luster. Hematite is also called ‘bloodstone.’  It has an extremely high brilliance and shine and takes a metallic polish that can look silver, pure black, or gunmetal blue. It is also used a lot in a matt finish as this necklace for a more natural every day look. Hematite is found in iron-mining areas.  High quality hematite, which is suitable for cutting is found around England, Germany and Elba, Italy. It’s also found in various locations around Brazil, Venezuela, England, Germany, Spain, Venezuela, and the United States. Birthstone of Aquarius !