Star gemstone jewellery, also known as star top jewellery, is extremely evocative and rare. Star gemstones are usually rubies or sapphires, however can also be spinel, diopside, beryl, and quartz. A star gemstone is a stone which displays a shimmering 6 pointed star when viewed under a light source. This is called the star effect, or asterism. Asterism is caused by the tiny needle-like rutile inclusions within the gemstone. Natural, unenhanced star rubies and sapphires are extremely rare.
Star rubies and sapphires are usually cut into an en-cabochon stone. This allows the natural asterism of the star gemstones to shine. The natural asterism of these star gemstones has been coveted throughout the ages. Their natural beauty is incredibly rare, and difficult to find in the natural world. The colour and the visibility and intensity of the asterism makes an impact on its worth.
In the ancient world, humans regarded star rubies and sapphires as a very powerful talisman. They were used as a guide and a protector for ancient travellers. It was thought that star gemstones were so powerful, they protected the wearer even after they had been passed on to another person. They believed that the rays of the star gemstone’s natural asterism was meant to symbolise hope, trust and destiny. Ancient rings sometimes include star gemstones, reflecting how important they were in ancient culture.
There were many ancient myths and legends surrounding star sapphires and rubies. Ancient Persian culture called star sapphires the ‘gem of heaven’ and were chips from the pedestal that supported the Earth. In India, ancient people believed that putting a star sapphire in water would create an elixir that would cure snake bites. It was believed that wearing star rubies and sapphires would protect against evil spirits. These beautiful stones were incredibly popular and meant a lot to ancient people. As the years went by, star gemstone jewellery remained to be popular. Star rubies and sapphires were massively sought after through the ages and in many different cultures. Many of our star gemstone jewellery pieces are from the Victorian era or later, demonstrating how the beauty of star gemstones have resulted in their popularity spanning centuries.
Our star gemstone jewellery displays incredibly rare and beautiful stones set in stunning metalwork. If any of our star ruby or sapphire jewellery pieces catches your eye, please be in touch here online, or visit our showroom at the heart of Hatton Garden.
Our team of jewellery experts are on hand to answer your questions online or in-store.
