Star rubies are among the most mesmerizing and sought-after gemstones in the world, renowned for their unique star effect that shimmers in the light. In this post, we'll explore the science, history, and beauty of star rubies, from how they are formed to their significance in jewelry and culture.

What are Star Rubies?

Star rubies are a variety of corundum, a mineral species that also includes sapphires. What sets star rubies apart is their asterism, a six-pointed star effect that appears when the gemstone is exposed to direct light.

Asterism is the result of light reflecting off microscopic needle-like inclusions inside the ruby. These inclusions, called rutile, are oriented in such a way that they create a star-shaped pattern on the surface of the stone. The quality and intensity of the star effect depend on several factors, such as the orientation and concentration of rutile inclusions, the cut and shape of the stone, and the source of the ruby.

Popularity and Significance Star rubies have been prized for their beauty and rarity for centuries, and they continue to be popular among collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and gemstone traders. Some of the most famous star rubies in the world have fetched millions of dollars at auction, attesting to their enduring appeal and value.

The Science of Star Rubies

To understand how star rubies are formed, it helps to know the crystal structure of corundum. Rubies are made of aluminum oxide with trace elements of chromium, which gives them their distinctive red color. The crystal structure of rubies is trigonal, meaning it has threefold symmetry and a hexagonal shape.

When light enters a star ruby, it is refracted and bent as it passes through the crystal lattice. The rutile inclusions act as tiny mirrors that reflect the refracted light in six directions, creating the star effect. The angle and intensity of the star effect depend on the position and orientation of the light source relative to the stone.

There are different types of asterism patterns found in star rubies, depending on the orientation and concentration of rutile inclusions. The most common type is the six-pointed star, which is often referred to as the "classic" or "traditional" star. Other types include the twelve-pointed star, the cat's eye star, and the comet star.

The History and Lore of Star Rubies

Star rubies have been revered in many cultures throughout history for their perceived mystical and healing properties. In India, for example, star rubies were believed to protect their wearers from harm and bring good luck. In Europe, star rubies were favored by royalty and nobility as symbols of wealth and power.

Star rubies have also been the subject of many myths and legends. In Hindu mythology, the star ruby was associated with the god of the sun and the god of war, and was believed to be imbued with divine powers. In ancient Greece, star rubies were said to have the ability to heal wounds and protect against evil spirits.

Several star rubies have achieved legendary status due to their size, quality, and history. One of the most famous is the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby, a 138.7-carat gemstone with a deep red color and a well-defined six-pointed star.

Star Rubies in Jewelry

Star rubies are popular gemstones for use in jewelry. They are often used in rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. Star ruby jewelry is popular in Asian cultures, where it is believed to bring good luck and protect the wearer from harm.

The value of star rubies in jewelry depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the star effect, the clarity and color of the stone, and the cut and size of the gemstone. Fine-quality star rubies can be quite expensive, especially those that are large and have a clear, well-defined star effect.

As with any gemstone jewelry, it's important to care for and maintain star ruby jewelry properly to preserve its beauty. This includes avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning products, and storing the jewelry in a soft, dry place when not being worn.

Conclusion

Star rubies are truly a marvel of nature, with their unique and captivating star effect. The science behind how they are formed and the way light interacts with them is truly fascinating. The history and lore surrounding star rubies adds to their allure, making them even more special and significant. And, of course, their enduring popularity in jewelry is a testament to their beauty and appeal.

If you're considering purchasing a star ruby, it's important to do your research and make sure you're getting a quality stone that will bring you joy and beauty for years to come. With their captivating star effect and rich history, star rubies are truly a gemstone to treasure.