Cobalt-doped spinel (^Co2+: _Mg2SiO4 or Co:MALO) is a laser material for the production of Q-switched lasers. Co:MALO enables the generation of pulses in the nanosecond range with high intensity at the same time. Due to its absorption band in the wavelength range between 1.2 µm and 1.6 µm, Co:spinel is particularly suitable for laser applications in the eye-safe range and makes it interesting for laser applications in medicine and research. Cobalt-doped spinel is a stable, hard crystal, which results in good machinability.