Flux Synthetic Spinels

Flux synthetic spinels (there are many in the market worldwide) when clean/gem quality are difficult to separate from natural inclusion-free spinels. They have nearly the same optical and physical properties. Even rough flux crystal specimens look like natural: octahedral in shape. So rapid sight identification is a real challenge not only for gemologists but also for gem traders, jewelers and consumers. I think when you are confronted with clean gemmy specimens, when traditional gem testing methodologies are not conclusive, you have no choice but to rely on analytical gem testing equipments like Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (EDXRF), Infra-red Spectrophotometer, and Raman Micro Spectroscopy for true identification. If you are doubtful, always consult a reputed gem testing laboratory.