Buy Star Gemstones(793) |
|||||
|
|||||
Single |
Pairs |
Lots |
Faceted |
Cabochons |
Star or, more properly, asterism, is a term used for gemstones which display a star-like shape that can appear to float across their surface. Typically the star will have 4 or 6 rays but on very rare occasions 12 rays can be seen.
The most famous Star Gemstones are rubies and sapphires but asterism may also be exhibited by a number of other gemstones, such as moonstone, lemon and rose quartz, garnet and diopside.
In most cases, the 'star effect' is the result of tiny inclusions of the mineral rutile within the gemstone which are aligned in parallel lines. With great skill, cutters have to turn the gemstones to just the right angle before shaping and polishing to ensure they have a clear and distinct star.
To display the star effect at its most impressive, most Star Gemstones are cut into cabochons - flat bottoms with smooth domed tops - not faceted. These cabochons tend to be round or oval but very rarely come in pear or rectangular shapes.
With their other worldly appearance, it is no wonder that Star Gemstones were quickly given mystical powers in the ancient world.
In India, a Star Ruby would be worn into battle by warriors for protection and it was believed that any opponent who saw the gemstone would lose half his bravery.
It has also been a long held belief that Star Gemstones could ward off the malevolence and misfortune brought about by the Evil Eye.
The three lines that create the 6 rayed Star Gemstones are supposed to symbolize trust, hope and destiny.
Each gemstone type - ruby, sapphire, garnet and so on - has its own strengths and spiritual influences but these powers are magnified and intensified by the Star.
See our detailed article on gemstone meaning and uses
Generally the ideal color of a Star Gemstone should be close to that of a normal specimen of the gem type. So, for example, a star sapphire should be blue, a star ruby should be red and a star rose quartz should be pink.
Of course, there will be variations - star sapphires can be found in yellow and golden colors, star rubies range from pink to purple and the presence of the rutile needed to create the star effect will naturally weaken the color of all star gemstones.
Read more about gemstones colors here
Usually gemstones are priced according to the 4 Cs - color, clarity, cut and carat weight - and the gem type. Star gemstones are no different but have a couple of extra elements that add or subtract value.
As an example, in most cases, rare star sapphires will be more expensive than relatively common star moonstones. Star Quartz and Star Garnets are both very reasonably priced gemstones.
Once you have established which gem type to choose there are a few factors to consider when pricing the gemstone:
Yes, some of the most famous and infamous gemstones in history have been Star Gemstones:
Large single star gemstones can be ideal for pendants and radiate both alluring and mystical qualities. Slightly smaller star gemstones can make great rings with a very popular retro look.
Although many Star Gemstones have unique looks, it is possible to find some examples as pairs and in lots, so earrings, multi-stone jewelry items as well as side stones and accent stones become options.
Gemstones can vary in hardness and durability. Some Star Gemstones such as rubies and sapphires are very tough and can be used for all types of jewelry, others such as garnet and quartz are a little softer but still sturdy enough for daily use.
As a guideline gemstones of a Mohs Hardness rating of above 7 are considered durable.
For more information see our article here.
Star Gemstones have a long and varied history full of myth and legend.
Owner of the 'face that launched a 1000 ships', renowned beauty Helen of Troy supposedly owed her desirability to the large star sapphire she wore. Dozens of princes fought for her hand before she married King Menelaus of Sparta. Then she ran away with Paris and began the ten year Trojan Wars.
Wise King Soloman had a magical ring which was described as blue sapphire with a 6 pointed star of David engraved on it that allowed him to speak to animals and banish demons. Sounds like it could have been a Star Sapphire.
In the 'jewel heist of the century', the Star of India and the Midnight Star Sapphire were among the gemstones stolen back in 1964 valued at the time at $400,000 (much more now). Luckily most of the stones were recovered.
Read more about the famous heist here.
A common way to enhance the appearance of gemstones is through heat treatment as this can improve both the color and the clarity. With Star Gemstones it can be a little tricky to improve the color with heat and not destroy the inclusions that create the star effect.
For this reason most Star Gemstones are not treated.
Some star sapphires and star rubies are fracture filled which repairs minor cracks and fissures common in these gemstones. This is a permanent and accepted treatment.
Synthetic Star Gemstones exist although GemSelect never buys or sells them. Look out for any gemstones that look 'too perfect' and purchase your stone from a reputable dealer.
Any treatments our gemstones receive will be fully and clearly disclosed.
Star gemstones can be used in just the same way as all gemstones - for jewelry items, spiritual crystal healing, to decorate the home or office or to expand a collection.
Over 16 Years in the Gemstone Business!
Thank you for trusting us with your purchase!
Overall Rating -> 10
Haven't seen my product yet, but ok so far.
Overall Rating -> 10
🧐🧐🧐.. Very professional, easy purchases, easily navigated website, great pricing!
Overall Rating -> 10
I have bought unset jewels from GEMSELECT several times in the past few years and have always been pleased. I will buy from them again.
Overall Rating -> 10
Completely would recommend this company to any gem collector, jewelry store, or someone looking for a gemstone to repair their jewelry. There is an abundance of choices at great prices! If you don’t see what you need exactly the customer service department will go above and beyond to meet your needs. Shipping is very reasonable! The gemstones always arrive well before the expected arrival date. This company has very high standards of meeting their customers needs! They are the number 1 company I go to when looking for any gemstone. They are also very detailed in their descriptions so there is no confusion at all as what you are purchasing! Highly recommended!!!!
Overall Rating -> 10
I have found what I think is the best kept secret for buying stones, and I have to tell you about this gem stone site I found! There is a large selection of stones and crystals, and the best prices I have found for nuummite! They make it incredibly easy to find exactly what you are looking for by shape, size, cost, and clarity. I have already purchased two stones and I will be checking the site frequently from now on for everything and anything that I am hoping to find. They have individual pictures of every stone with different views so you absolutely know what you are buying.Honestly, I was hesitant to purchase something the first time BECAUSE the prices were so competitive and below anything I found elsewhere and because the stone was both being purchased online and from another country. I received the stone ahead of shipping schedule and when I received the package, it was in not one but two separate zip lock bags. One had the certificate of authenticity and details about the stone. The second had information about the stone itself. I was so impressed with the quality of the stone and that it was definitely the stone I picked out on their site, that I ordered another stone without hesitation. I will be using this site to purchase gifts for everyone I can think of! lol
Overall Rating -> 10
I had problems with PayPal. My customer service rep, Thomas, did a great job in shepherding me through the process. I ended up purchasing three stones, due to Thomas good customer service. Thomas deserves a raise and a week's vacation.
Overall Rating -> 10
Completely would recommend this company to any gem collector, jewelry store, or someone looking for a gemstone to repair their jewelry. There is an abundance of choices at great prices! If you don't see what you need exactly the customer service department will go above and beyond to meet your needs. Shipping is very reasonable! The gemstones always arrive well before the expected arrival date. This company has very high standards of meeting their customers needs! They are the number 1 company I go to when looking for any gemstone. They are also very detailed in their descriptions so there is no confusion at all as what you are purchasing! Highly recommended!!!!
Overall Rating -> 10
Excellent choice and great service.
Overall Rating -> 10
My interaction was what I expected, but I have purchased from GemSelect in the past.
Overall Rating -> 10
Just browsing for a stone. Best selection around. Thanks!
Overall Rating -> 10
I love the website easy to find what I’m looking for very co friendly and very trustable resource and fare pricing
Overall Rating -> 10
Bro, they have so many gems to choose from. Big small faceted and cabochon. Go order your lady something.
You're signing up to receive GemSelect promotional email |
*You're signing up to receive GemSelect promotional email. |
Privacy Notice © 2005-2022 GemSelect.com all rights reserved.
Reproduction (text or graphics) without the express written consent of GemSelect.com (SETT Company Ltd.) is strictly prohibited.
338
More Shapes
|
English speaking customer support only
|
Toll Free - USA & Canada only: |
Save Money
No shipping Fees for Additional Items!
$8.90 Worldwide Shipping
Update Translation
|
||||
|
||||
Size and Weight
|
Gems are always measured in Millimeter (mm) Dimensions are given as; Select gems by size, not by weight! Note: 1ct = 0.2g ![]() |