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Rubies are one of the most popular gemstones around and it looks like they are not going out of vogue anytime soon. Such is the popularity of the Ruby that if you are to flash any red gem in front of anyone and they almost always end up calling it a Ruby; even if it is a Garnet! However a lesser known variety of the Ruby is the Star Ruby. This Ruby gets its name from the distinctive star shape that can be found on its front.
What causes the star effect?
The star effect on the Ruby is formed by the dense inclusion of small fibers called rutiles within the Ruby. These rutiles are arranged perpendicular to the shape of the star and are primarily responsible for this asterism. Unlike most gemstones where inclusions are generally speaking not a desired quality, in Star Rubies it is these inclusions that cause the Star effect.
Star Rubies are one of the rarer forms of Rubies. Out of every hundred or so Rubies mined only three will have the distinctive Star shape visible on them after being cut into Cabochon cut. Out of these three, one will have a poor color but a good star, one will have a good color but a poor star, and only one will have good color along with a good star. Yes, good Star Rubies are that rare!
Originally, Star Rubies were found in Burma which is also famous for its Pigeon blood variety of Rubies; however the supplies there have long run out. Today, it is very rare to find a Ruby with a star which is over 5 Carats in weight. Natural Rubies are increasingly becoming rare so jewelers are resorting to heat treating Rubies to achieve the same effect. Original, untreated Star Rubies will sell for a lot more money than heat treated samples.
Myths and Legends Surrounding the Star Ruby
Given the seraphic and mysteriously perfect arrangement on an already precious gem, it was only natural for it to develop legends around it. During the feudal times, Star Rubies were often worn by Knights into battle who believed that the stone would protect them from the enemy. In India, it was believed that if this Ruby was worn visibly on the Turban or the Helmet into battle then it would drain the enemy of his valor and courage.
Myths and Legends aside, the Star Ruby continues to be extremely popular today for its awe inspiring charm. The perfect arrangement of lines which form the line on the Ruby is one of the ways that nature has chosen to display its perfection and it deserves to be celebrated.
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