An Interview with Spinel Collector Seth Rosen

Spinel collector and gem trade expert Seth Rosen discusses the current market and potential future for this beautiful but little-known stone.

9 Minute Read

Home Learning Center Jewelry and Lapidary Resources for the Professional LapidaryAn Interview with Spinel Collector Seth Rosen

By Emily Frontiere

Spinel is a Collector’s Gem

First, we discussed the public’s limited knowledge of this gem. Mr. Rosen said plainly that spinel “is a collector’s gem.” But could that change? He responded:

I think the general public has never heard of spinel and never really will. The issue with spinel is that it’s rare. And really fine quality is quite rare.

Considering spinel’s rarity and obscurity, I asked Mr. Rosen how he first came to admire the gem.

Obviously, it’s easy to be interested in sapphire, rubies, colored diamonds, and stuff like that. Spinel just caught my eye. People didn’t really understand why it was so special. It was significantly more affordable at the time, especially for the premium colors. Red was always expensive but nothing like today.

Purplish red, mixed pear-cut spinel, 2.50 cts, 11.3 x 7 mm, Vietnam. © The Gem Trader. Used with permission.

What Should Spinel Buyers Look For?

Those in the trade know that every gemstone species has its own standards of beauty and quality. I asked Mr. Rosen what those shopping for spinels should consider. In terms of appearance, he said:

…

Emily Frontiere

Emily Frontiere is a GIA Graduate Gemologist. She is particularly experienced working with estate/antique jewelry.

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