At Danushka Gems and Mining, we recently had the privilege of working with a truly special spinel from our rough collection—a beautiful stone featuring a unique purple-red combination. This particular rough came from the Okkampitiya mining region in Sri Lanka, known for producing some of the finest gemstones in the world. From the moment we acquired it, we knew we had something exceptional.
When we first encountered the spinel, it weighed 15.90 ct and measured 19.6 x 11.7 x 7.1 mm. It was completely untreated (natural/unheated), retaining its natural beauty straight from the earth. The color immediately caught our eye—it was rich and vibrant, a mix of purple and red that was incredibly captivating. When placed under shortwave ultraviolet light, the spinel reacted like a red ruby, further confirming its high quality and desirability.
We obtained this stone after a series of negotiations. I recall making three separate offers to the direct gem dealer before finally closing the deal. The third offer was successful, and I am so glad it was! The moment I saw the gem, I knew it was something special. Its color was so striking, and as I examined the stone more closely, I could see that beneath the rough exterior lay a clean, beautiful treasure just waiting to be revealed.
The cutting process was meticulous. Given the stone’s long, irregular shape, we decided to remove one corner that contained an inclusion to maximize its clarity and brilliance. After preforming the stone, we shaped it into a long cushion. The end result was stunning: after cutting and polishing, the stone’s dimensions shifted from 19.6 mm to 14.63 mm in length, 11.7 mm to 9.15 mm in width, and 7.1 mm to 5.28 mm in depth. The finished piece now boasts a truly brilliant cushion cut that perfectly showcases its radiant color and clarity.
At Danushka Gems and Mining, we take pride in sourcing gemstones directly from the earth and transforming them into breathtaking pieces. This particular spinel is a testament to the incredible gems found in Sri Lanka’s mining regions and the skilled craftsmanship we apply to each stone. Whether you’re a gem cutter, collector, or jewelry designer, we are committed to providing the finest quality gems, and this spinel is one we are especially proud to offer.
Stay connected with us to discover more one-of-a-kind treasures like this, directly sourced and expertly cut to bring out the natural brilliance hidden within each stone.