A Closer Look at Vietnamese Spinel

Healed fractures composed of aligned octahedra of various sizes are commonly present. Photomicrograph Christopher P. Smith, 58x.

Spinel exhibiting a broad spectrum of colors is known to derive from many countries around the world, however, the two most well-known and historical deposits are found in Sri Lanka and in the area surrounding the Mogok valley in Burma (Myanmar). More recent finds of spinel in places such as Manya Zek (northern Burma), Kenya, Tajikistan and Tanzania have led to an increased supply of this highly desirable and sought after gem material.

Spinel from the Luc Yen region of northern Vietnam began making its way into the market as mineral specimens and faceted gemstones during the late 1980s and the early 1990s.

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