For 250 years The Three Brethren jewel (seen here on James VI and I's hat) was worn and collected by dukes, kings, queens (including Elizabeth I), & Jacob Fugger, one of the richest men who ever lived...then in the 1640's the jewel disappeared without a trace. Called The Three Brethren for the three, large red spinels, its owner was potent with real power and wealth.

Also detailed, and hopefully cleared up, is the confusing language and etymology associated with spinels and balas rubies, as well as the possible source of The Three Brethren spinels.