spinel

noun

spi·​nel spə-ˈnel 

variants or spinelle

1

: a hard crystalline mineral consisting of an oxide of magnesium and aluminum that varies from colorless to ruby red to black and is used as a gem

2

: any of a group of minerals that are essentially oxides of magnesium, ferrous iron, zinc, or manganese

Examples of spinel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One stunning example featuring ruby root, opals, spinel, and mandarin garnets was reportedly among the first pieces to sell. —Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 19 June 2025

The spinels have an approximate total weight of more than 2,000 carats. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

Another necklace, inspired by Milan’s night sky, suspends a smoky star composed of grey sapphires and spinels. —Milena Lazazzera, CNN Money, 29 May 2025

The highlight of the Bouquet des Roses necklace is a 13.57-carat oval-cut pink sapphire from Madagascar, framed by white and yellow diamonds, pink sapphires, spinels and doublet fiery opals. —Nazanin Lankarani, New York Times, 20 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian spinella, diminutive of spina thorn, from Latin

First Known Use

1528, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spinel

• ruby spinel