Star Ruby

A Star Ruby is a rare and valuable variety of ruby that exhibits a unique optical phenomenon known as asterism. Asterism is the appearance of a star-like pattern on the surface of a gemstone when it is illuminated by a direct light source. In the case of Star Rubies, this star-like pattern typically consists of intersecting lines that form a visible star shape.

The star effect in Star Rubies is caused by the presence of needle-like inclusions of a mineral called rutile within the ruby crystal. These inclusions align themselves in such a way that they reflect light in a specific manner, creating the star pattern. The most common Star Rubies display a six-rayed star, but variations with four or twelve rays can also be found.

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AAA+ Violet Blue Tanzanite 2.75ct - 9mm (TN1107)

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Tanzanite price per carat $201.00
$552.00

Baby Blue Aquamarine 3.67ct - Pair (AQ4420)

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Aquamarine price per carat $108.00
$395.00

Sky Blue Aquamarine 2.80ct - 9mm (AQ4505)

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Aquamarine price per carat $137.00
$381.00

Green Colombian Emerald 3.67ct (PG0407)

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Colombian Emerald price per carat $587.00
$2,151.00

Blue Zircon 10.06ct - 10mm (ZI0857)

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Zircon price per carat $159.00
$1,598.00

Red Star Ruby 3.71ct (SR0070)

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Star Ruby price per carat $1,256.00
$4,658.00

Red Star Ruby 4.13ct (SR0069)

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Star Ruby price per carat $1,255.00
$5,183.00

Red Star Ruby 4.76ct (SR0068)

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Star Ruby price per carat $1,255.00
$5,970.00

Red Star Ruby 5.50ct (SR0067)

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Star Ruby price per carat $1,254.00
$6,895.00

Red Star Ruby 4.45ct - 9x7mm (SR0066)

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Star Ruby price per carat $1,255.00
$5,583.00

Pink Star Ruby 3.33ct (SR0063)

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Star Ruby price per carat $253.00
$841.00

Pink Star Ruby 2.82ct - 8x6mm (SR0061)

Loose Star Ruby Gemstone Certified Star Ruby
Star Ruby price per carat $254.00
$714.00

Pink Star Ruby 2.85ct - 8x6mm (SR0059)

Loose Star Ruby Gemstone Certified Star Ruby
Star Ruby price per carat $303.00
$862.00

STAR RUBY GEMSTONE INFORMATION

Star rubies are known for their asterism phenomenon, which creates a star-like sheen when the stone is moved in the light. This effect is caused by the reflection of light off tiny rutile inclusions within the gem, forming a six-rayed star pattern.

 

STAR RUBY ATTRIBUTES

Mineral Corrundum
Chemistry Al2O3
Color Red - Vivid Red
Refractive Index 1.762 - 1.770
Birefringence 0.008 - 0.010
Specific Gravity 4.00
Mohs Hardness 9.0
 

STAR RUBY VALUE

Star rubies are among the rarest and most expensive gemstones in the world due to their unique optical phenomenon. Only about 1 percent of all rubies display the six-rayed star effect. Quality and size significantly influence the value of star rubies, with some top specimens selling for millions of dollars.

 

Star Ruby Colors

The most desirable color for star rubies is "pigeon's blood," characterized by its intense raspberry-red to orangey-pinkish red hue.

 

Star Ruby Gems Origin

Star rubies are sourced from various locations, including Africa, Burma (Myanmar), Australia, India, and Sri Lanka. They have a rich history and have been used in royal jewelry and religious rituals.

 

Star Ruby Properties:

The asterism in star rubies is caused by rutile needle inclusions, known as "silk," which form intersecting lines to create the star effect. The clarity of the star effect depends on the amount of silk present.

 

Star Ruby Care


To clean star rubies, use warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemical solutions. Do not use diamond jewelry cleaner on star rubies, as their hardness is slightly lower than that of diamonds (9 vs. 10 on the Mohs scale).