Star Sapphire
Star Sapphire
The Star Sapphire is a captivating variety of corundum. Star Sapphire is renowned for its unique optical phenomenon known as asterism—a star-like pattern. The star clearly appears on the surface of the gemstone when viewed under direct light. This effect is caused by the reflection of light from needle-like inclusions of rutile (titanium dioxide) aligned in specific orientations within the crystal structure.
Variety and Category
- Mineral Family: Corundum
- Chemical Formula: Al₂O₃ (aluminum oxide)
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous to subadamantine, often exhibiting a silky sheen due to rutile inclusions
Color and Value
Star Sapphires occur in a range of colors, including blue, black, pink, and yellow. Among these, blue Star Sapphires are the most highly prized, especially those with a vivid hue and a sharp, well-centered star. The value of a Star Sapphire is significantly influenced by the clarity and distinctness of the star, the intensity and uniformity of the body color, and the overall transparency of the stone. High-quality specimens exhibit a sharp six-rayed star that is clearly visible under direct light.
Common Cuts and Applications of Star Sapphire
To best display the asterism effect, Star Sapphires are typically cut en cabochon. En cabochon features a smooth, domed surface that allows the star to be prominently visible. The dome is usually oriented perpendicular to the crystal’s c-axis to maximize the star effect. These gemstones are popular choices for rings, pendants, and brooches, where their unique optical properties can be showcased.
Sri Lankan Uniqueness
Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is renowned for producing some of the finest Star Sapphires in the world. The country’s gem-rich regions, particularly around Ratnapura, have yielded exceptional specimens. Some well-known stones, including the famous “Star of India,” a 563.35-carat blue Star Sapphire housed in the American Museum of Natural History, and the “Star of Adam,” a 1,404.49-carat blue Star Sapphire discovered in 2015, are recognized as some of the largest of their kind.
At Luxiris Gems (PVT) Ltd., we take pride in offering authentic Sri Lankan Star Sapphires, each meticulously selected for its exceptional quality and captivating beauty. Our commitment to ethical sourcing and excellence ensures that our clients receive gemstones that are not only stunning but also steeped in the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s gemological legacy. Contact us to find your dream stone.
