Mahenge Spinel
Tanzania's exceptional neon pink to red spinel from the Mahenge region - discovery, characteristics, and market impact.
tanzania spinel mahenge neon-pink
Introduction
Mahenge spinel from Tanzania has transformed the spinel market since
significant finds in 2007. The exceptional neon pink to red colours,
combined with strong fluorescence, have made Mahenge among the most
desirable spinel origins worldwide.
Mahenge Source
Tanzania's premier spinel deposit:
- Location: Mahenge, Morogoro Region, central Tanzania
- Discovery: Known since 1980s; major finds 2007
- Geology: Marble-hosted deposits (similar to Mogok)
- Mining: Mix of artisanal and small-scale operations
- Production: Sporadic; significant finds create market events
Colour Characteristics
What makes Mahenge spinel exceptional:
Signature Colours
- Hot pink: Intense, saturated neon pink
- Neon red: Vivid, glowing red
- Orange-pink: Vibrant padparadscha-like hues
- Character: Electric, fluorescent appearance
What Creates the Glow
- Low iron content (marble host)
- Strong chromium colour
- Exceptional red fluorescence
- Fluorescence adds to apparent colour saturation
Quality Factors
Evaluating Mahenge spinel:
- Colour: Neon saturation most valued
- Clarity: Often very clean
- Fluorescence: Strong red adds to appeal
- Size: Fine large stones rare and premium
- No treatment: Natural colour throughout
Market Impact
How Mahenge changed the spinel market:
Market Transformation
Value Position
- Among highest prices for spinel by origin
- Fine stones: $5,000-15,000+ per carat
- Exceptional pieces sold at major auctions
- Limited production maintains value
Collector Demand
- Strong following among serious collectors
- Competition from Burmese spinel
- "Jedi" spinel term sometimes applied to finest pinks
- Growing investment interest
Spinel Comparison Note
Other East African Spinel
Additional regional production:
- Other Tanzanian sources: Various quality levels
- Kenya: Some production reported
- Madagascar: Red and pink varieties
- Character: Generally not matching Mahenge quality