Spinel is a mineral that belongs to a group of minerals that share the same crystal structure, known as the cubic or isometric crystal system. One interesting fact about spinel is that it was often mistaken for ruby throughout history. The most famous example of this confusion is the “Black Prince’s Ruby,” which is actually a large red spinel set in the Imperial State Crown of England. Despite being recognized as a distinct mineral only in the late 18th century, spinel has been prized for centuries for its brilliance and wide range of colors. Today, it is considered a valuable gemstone and is used in a variety of jewelry settings.
