Mineral | Corrundum |
---|---|
Chemistry | Al2O3 |
Color | Light - Deep Blue |
Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
Birefringence | 0.008 - 0.010 |
Specific Gravity | 4.00 |
Mohs Hardness | 9.0 |
Star Sapphire will have a blue hue commonly, and part of the corundum family with an exception of white asterism visible. Mined from several locality like from Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Vietnam. These gemstones are also referred to as six ray’s gemstones in the trade also known as the "Star on Earth"
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5.97ct (SS0010)
Star sapphires are distinct gemstones known for their asterism, which creates a star-like pattern on the surface when viewed under direct light. This phenomenon sets them apart from other sapphires and gemstones. Star sapphires are renowned for their hardness and durability.
Mineral | Corrundum |
---|---|
Chemistry | Al2O3 |
Color | Light - Deep Blue |
Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
Birefringence | 0.008 - 0.010 |
Specific Gravity | 4.00 |
Mohs Hardness | 9.0 |
Star sapphires are often opaque, although some specimens may display translucency. The distinctive asterism is caused by perfectly aligned needle-like rutile inclusions. Properly cut and polished star sapphires exhibit a vitreous to silky luster. The value of star sapphires, like other sapphires, is influenced by factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most prized color for star sapphires is blue, with more vivid and intense blue hues being highly desired. Star sapphires can also occur in pink, yellow, orange, green, lavender, and black.
Star sapphires are essentially the same as regular sapphires in terms of color, with blue being the most famous and desired. Blue star sapphires are created by the presence of iron and titanium. Vanadium can produce violet to purple colored star sapphires. Other hues, such as yellow, green, lavender, and black, can also be found in star sapphires, with the presence of different trace elements influencing their colors. Star sapphires from Thailand are known for exhibiting a golden star, which is less common than the white star seen in most star sapphires. Star sapphires with intense pink colors and traces of chromium and iron may be classified as star rubies rather than sapphires.
Star sapphire deposits can be found in various parts of the world, including Africa and Brazil. Important sources for star sapphires today include Australia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Star sapphires are exceptionally durable with a hardness of 9.0 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamonds. Their hardness and lack of cleavage planes make them excellent gemstones for jewelry.
Star sapphires are highly durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. They have no cleavage planes, which adds to their durability. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush, warm water, and mild soap free of abrasives. Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe for star sapphires, but caution should be exercised with jewelry settings, as the materials holding the gem may be softer.
Star sapphires are known for their enchanting star-like patterns and durability, making them a unique and valuable gemstone choice for various jewelry pieces.