What are Star Rubies?
Star Rubies are a rare variety of the gemstone Ruby. These magnificent gems
display a sharp six-rayed star which seems to glide and shimmer magically
across the surface of the gem when the latter is moved. This is caused due to an
optical phenomenon known as "Asterism". The star is best visible when the
star ruby is seen in a single light source such as sunlight and spotlight.
What causes the Star-Effect?
Star-effect or "asterism" is caused by the dense inclusions of tiny
fibers of rutile (also known as "silk"). The stars are caused by
the light reflecting from needle-like inclusions of rutile aligned perpendicular
to the rays of the star. However, since rutile is always present in star rubies,
they are never completely transparent. In fact, star ruby is one of those few
gemstones which actually require inclusions (i.e. rutile).
Are Star Rubies rare?
Today, out of every 100 rough corundum (ruby and sapphire) mined; only three
will have stars apparent after being cut into cabochons. Out of these three, one
will have a poor color but a good star; one will have a poor star but a good
color and only one out of hundred will have both a good star and a good
color!
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z home
Most original sources of star rubies such as Mogok
(Burma) have run out of supplies. Worldwide production today is yielding
a very small quantity of fine stars (especially in sizes above 5
carats). Star rubies are becoming rare as most rough today is cut into
faceted stones after heating instead of being cut into cabochons to
display the star.
Star Ruby Myths and Legends:
Traditionally, star rubies were worn by knights in the battlefields to
protect themselves from the enemy. Local tales in Karnataka (India) say
that if it is worn as a visible pendant or as a headgear then anyone who
faces you as an enemy looses half his valour. The power of star ruby is
said to be the highest during full moon.
Star Ruby is said to pep up internal strength, ward off tensions,
distress the mind and drive away stress related problems like migraine,
insomnia, and hysteria.