Spinel is a gem of exceptional brilliance featuring a highly varied color palette ranging from red to blue, as well as rarer green hues. It takes its name from the Latin spina, meaning “thorn,” a reference to the pointed shape of raw spinel crystals. A prized material for Van Cleef & Arpels, spinel generally lends its intense radiance and crystalline essence to High Jewelry collections.

To create its pieces, the Maison is partial to cherry-red, black and raspberry spinel, particularly sought after. Experts single out stones with the purest essence and the most vivid colors.