The Star of India is a magnificent blue star sapphire that has captured the attention of many gem enthusiasts for centuries. This precious gemstone is one of the most famous sapphires in the world, known for its exceptional size and captivating beauty. In this post, we will explore the fascinating history and characteristics of the Star of India sapphire.

The History of the Star of India

The Star of India was discovered over 300 years ago in the Ratnapura mines of Sri Lanka, which is known for producing some of the world's finest sapphires. The sapphire weighed around 563 carats in its rough form and was initially sold to an unknown buyer for a modest price. The gemstone then changed hands several times before eventually finding its way into the possession of the American financier J.P. Morgan in 1900.

Morgan donated the Star of India along with several other gemstones to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, where it has remained on display ever since. The sapphire has been the subject of several attempted thefts over the years, including a successful heist in 1964 where it was stolen and recovered from a locker in Miami.

Characteristics of the Star of India

The Star of India is a cabochon-cut sapphire that displays a six-rayed star pattern, known as asterism, which is caused by the presence of tiny needle-like inclusions within the crystal. The asterism effect can be seen under direct light, and the star appears to move as the gemstone is rotated.

The sapphire has a blue-gray color and is considered to be one of the largest blue star sapphires in the world. The exact weight of the gemstone is unknown as it has not been weighed since it was last cleaned in the 1980s. However, it is estimated to be around 563 carats, making it one of the largest sapphires in the world.

The Star of India is also known for its clarity and transparency, with only a few visible inclusions. It is believed that the gemstone was formed in the late Precambrian era, around 2 billion years ago, and was brought to the surface by volcanic activity.

The Significance of the Star of India

The Star of India is a valuable gemstone both for its size and rarity. Blue star sapphires are rare, and those that display a clear and defined asterism are even rarer. The Star of India is considered to be one of the finest examples of a blue star sapphire in the world, and it has been the subject of many myths and legends.

In Hindu mythology, sapphires are believed to represent the planet Saturn and are associated with power, wisdom, and good fortune. It is believed that wearing a sapphire can bring success and prosperity to the wearer.

The Star of India has also played a significant role in popular culture, featuring in several movies and books. In the movie "Night at the Museum," the Star of India is one of the artifacts that comes to life at night, causing chaos and mischief.

Conclusion

The Star of India is a legendary blue star sapphire that has captured the hearts and imaginations of many people around the world. Its exceptional size, clarity, and rarity make it one of the most sought-after sapphires in the world. Its fascinating history and association with power and good fortune only add to its allure, making it a gemstone that will continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come.