Sapphires are among the most precious and coveted gemstones in the world, prized for their rich hues and exceptional clarity. Among the rarest and most valuable of all sapphires is the Black Star of Queensland, a magnificent gemstone with a fascinating history and unique qualities that set it apart from all others.

In this blog, we will explore the story of the Black Star of Queensland, from its discovery to its current status as one of the most coveted sapphires in the world.

Discovery and Origins

The Black Star of Queensland was discovered in the mid-1930s in the Anakie sapphire fields in Queensland, Australia. It was found by a local miner who, upon uncovering the stone, initially thought it was a black tourmaline. However, upon closer inspection, it was identified as a sapphire of exceptional size and quality, weighing in at an astonishing 733 carats.

Unique Qualities

What sets the Black Star of Queensland apart from other sapphires is its unusual black color and its unique asterism, or star effect. The star effect is created by the presence of tiny needle-like inclusions, which reflect light in a way that creates a six-pointed star pattern on the surface of the stone.

Ownership and Value

The Black Star of Queensland has had a colorful history of ownership, changing hands several times over the years. In 1947, it was purchased by a jeweler in Sydney, who cut it down to a more manageable size of 202 carats and set it in a pendant surrounded by diamonds. It was then sold to a buyer in the United States for $1 million, making it the most expensive sapphire in the world at the time.

Current Status and Display

Today, the Black Star of Queensland is considered one of the most valuable and rare sapphires in the world, and its current whereabouts are unknown. It is believed to be in the possession of a private collector or museum, and it has not been seen in public for many years.

Conclusion

The Black Star of Queensland is a truly enigmatic and fascinating gemstone, with a rich history and unique qualities that have made it one of the most coveted sapphires in the world. Its black color and distinctive star effect make it a true rarity, and its value and significance continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and collectors around the world. So if you ever get a chance to see the Black Star of Queensland, it is definitely an experience not to be missed.