The star sapphire is that variety of sapphire in which, when the stone is cut and rounded off horizontal with the dome of the crystal, the light is condensed across the three lines of crystalline interference. Three cross lines produce a star which moves as a source of light or as it is moved from the source of light. Star sapphires very rarely possess the deep blue color of the fine blue sapphire; generally the color is somewhat impure, or of a milky-blue, or else a blue-gray, or sometimes almost a pure white. The blue-gray, gray, and white stones frequently show a much more distinct star, possibly from the fact that there are more inclusions between the layers of the crystals than with the darker blue stones, as it is the set of interference bands that produces the peculiar light. Just as the eye agate was used in some countries to preserve against the Evil Eye, so the moving star is believed by the Singhalese to serve as a protection and a guard against witchcraft of all kinds.
The great Oriental traveler, Sir Richard Francis Burton, had a large star sapphire or asteria, as it was called. He referred to it as his talisman, for it always brought him good horses and prompt attention wherever he went; in fact, it was only in those places where he received proper attention that he would show it to the natives, a favor they greatly appreciated because the sight of the stone was believed to bring good luck. The fame of
The remarkable asteria, known as the "Star of India," in the Morgan-Tiffany Collection in the
The asteria, or star sapphire, might be called a "Stone of Destiny," as the three cross-bars which traverse it are believed to represent Faith, Hope, and Destiny. As the stone is moved, or the light changes, a living star appears. As a guiding gem, warding off ill omen and the Evil Eye, the star-sapphire is worn for the same reasons as were the oculus mundi and the oculus Beli. One of the most unique of talismanic stones, it is said to be so potent that it continues to exercise its good influence over the first wearer even when it has passed into other hands.
Sapphires that display asterism are known as "stars" in the trade. They may occur in almost any color. A rare orange-pink variety, known as padparadschah, is even more valued than blue sapphire. The star is a result of the light reflecting off the silky crystallizations of rutile inside the stone.
Star sapphires are usually in six ray stars, but twelve ray stars are also known. Very rarely, sapphire also exhibits cat's eye effect. The three crossbars of star sapphire represent faith, hope, and charity. It was once used to ward off bad omens and the evil eye. Star Sapphire was considered so potent that its influence would remain with the first owner, even after it was passed on into other hands.
The ancients regarded star sapphires as a very powerful talisman, a guiding star for travelers and seekers of all kinds. The Sinhalese believed the star sapphire would protect them against witchcraft.
Legend has it that if a poisonous snake were put into a vessel along with a sapphire, the rays from the gem would kill it. Our ancestors interpreted this to mean that sapphire was an antidote against poison.
Sapphire is the birthstone for September, but ancient lists also name sapphire as a birthstone for April and the gemstone for the sign of Taurus. It is the anniversary gemstone for the 5th and 45th year of marriage.
Blue is the traditional color for sweethearts, possessing influences of love, peace and expressions of happiness. Although blue should never be worn on serious or practical occasions, it does have a soothing effect on the nerves. Blue is considered to be the color of the mind. Its effect is of a mental nature (as opposed to the physical reaction created by the color red). Strong blues tend to stimulate clear thought, whereas the lighter and softer varieties of this color calm the mind and aid concentration. Thus, blue is both serene and mentally calming. It is the color of clear communication. Objects colored blue do not appear to the eye to be as close as those which are red in color. Blue is a primary color...the force which keeps red and yellow in rational thought. Blue is said to inspire the sense of infinite perspective. It enlarges the space and manifests the subconscious, giving the impression of clarity, affection and friendship. Blue separates from the reality, being attuned to dreams, the endeavor of the supernatural and, on occasion, carelessness. It is the color of thought and fantasy, created from physical passivity. Blue is considered the most distant and cold color, with remoting contours of things, turning on renovation and travel. Blue has the form of a circle, widening and dissolving into space. According to research, blue is the world's favorite color. However, it can be perceived as cold, unemotional and unfriendly.
Traditionally, blue is symbolic of the Virgin Mary and thus, is associated with girls who display similar pure qualities. In addition, it is the color of water and the sea, indicative of femininity and life. It symbolizes peace, stability, security and loyalty, while also being connected to the cold, technology and depression. According to certain tradition, blue mirrors the color of the vast ocean surrounding the Japanese islands and is very commonly seen in Japanese art and clothing. In Christian symbolism, blue signifies the blue skies and/or the life-giving air. It is generally associated with hope or good health. Blue is an alternative color for the Season of Advent. It is symbolic of heaven and indicative of truth. In heraldry, blue is symbolic of truth and loyalty. By tradition, it is the color of baby boys.
The star sapphire is thought to develop independence, centering, balance and psychic powers.
For countless centuries, the sapphire has been associated with divine favor. The Buddhists believed this stone favored devotion and spiritual enlightenment, while the Ancient Greeks linked the sapphire...particularly the white variety...to Apollo and often wore it as an aid to prophecy when consulting oracles. In past times, this gem was considered to be a valuable aid toward development of the 'third eye,' and thought to guard its owner from being captured by enemies. It was frequently worn and used during rituals as a strengthening agent in the ability to tap and send forth power. Egyptians associated the clear sapphire with the Eye of Horus and this particular variety is also credited with being a guardian of love. The Persians believed that the blue of the sky was the reflection of a great sapphire upon which rested the Earth. Thus, it is often said to represent the tranquility of the heavens and some historians have noted that the Law given to Moses on the Mount was engraved upon tablets of sapphire. It is also the stone used in the Cardinal's ring to denote his badge of office within the Catholic religion. In addition, this gem was once believed lethal to venomous insects and reptiles, as well as being regarded in terms of gender...dark stones being female and light stones being male. In Medieval times, priests and monks would wear sapphire jewelry in the belief that the stone possessed the power to quell wicked impulses and impure thoughts, in addition to banishing envy and promoting chastity in virgins. Many monarchs throughout history have worn sapphires around their necks as a powerful defense from harm.
Rarity and Price History If the star is perfect, expect to pay $5000 per carat - if you can find one. How rare are these gems? For every 100 faceted corundum (ruby and sapphire) mined, approximately three stars are discovered. One will have good color and a bad star. One will have a great star and bad color. Only one out of a hundred will have a good star and good color. Fine stars are rarer than rare. Until the 1960s, these stones always sold for more than the faceted ruby. For example, in the late 19th century, three carat star rubies went for $3000 per carat. Stones found today that could be cut into stars are routinely heated to dissolve the rutile and then faceted. Also, US buyers must compete with the Japanese and the Europeans who will pay any price for these gems. Production today in Mogok is yielding a small amount of goods. It makes sense to collect gemstones that are 100X rarer than faceted stones and sell for less on a per carat basis. We believe these stones should eventually trade for more than their faceted counterparts. This would reflect their true value based upon rarity.
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