Vendor Recommendations - 1 Carat Black Spinel Round

[Frost Me]

Hi Gemstone Lovers, I need guidance/advice for an online vendor or ebay reference for a AAA 1 carat Black Spinel Round Cut Stone. Anyone?

 

[T L]

Hi Gemstone Lovers, I need guidance/advice for an online vendor or ebay reference for a AAA 1 carat Black Spinel Round Cut Stone. Anyone?

Black spinel is highly abundant and extremely low priced. I suggest ebay searches for one, and when you find one you like, you can then post it here for commentary. I don't think a lurker would steal it out from you, but if you're worried about that, check out the feedback of the ebay dealer on toolhaus.org to be sure they're a decent dealer, or only deal with "top rated" sellers. One thing I would never ever do is overpay for a black spinel, even a precision cut one. JMO.

Do not overpay!!!

 

[MollyMalone]

* * * Do not overpay!!!

TL, can you offer the price range that you'd consider reasonable? (I''ve never looked at black spinels, so like the OP, I'm clueless)

 

[T L]

* * * Do not overpay!!!

TL, can you offer the price range that you'd consider reasonable? (I''ve never looked at black spinels, so like the OP, I'm clueless)

I wouldn't pay more than $5/ct, and I've seen cut pieces on ebay in large sizes for roughly $1/ct to start with.

You can find black spinel rough in enormous sizes, so it's not rare at all.

It's a profitable stone for designers, as it mirrors black diamond, but is much much more affordable, and as far as I know, untreated. It also takes a nice polish. Black diamonds are typically irradiated.

 

[MollyMalone]

Black spinels sound like a superior choice -- for more than 1 reason -- than black diamonds (I have seen those & found them lacking); thanks for the info!

 

[T L]

Black spinels sound like a superior choice -- for more than 1 reason -- than black diamonds (I have seen those & found them lacking); thanks for the info!

You're welcome. I think they're a great alternative, and I would personally look for ones with even black color and a nice polish. They're also very durable.

 

[MollyMalone]

You're welcome. I think they're a great alternative, and I would personally look for ones with even black color and a nice polish. They're also very durable.

Hmmmm... you've inspired me to revisit my Xmas shopping list!

 

[marymm]

Have you checked with Doug Menadue of Bespoke Gems (based in Australia)? He has black spinel rough, and could quote you on a 1ct round... His stones are lovely and he has excellent customer service. http://www.bespoke-gems.com/SacredGeometrics_Gemstones_QuickList_Available_Rough.php#BlackSpinel