If you are just delving into the world of fine jewelry, you have undoubtedly come across many new and interesting terms used by those who are familiar with the business. There are dozens of different gem names and a long list of jargon that describes how gems are cut, as well as their size, clarity, and style. One interesting, natural phenomenon is described as a star gem. Typically used in conjunction with sapphires, star gems are not cut in the shape of a star, but rather have inclusions that produce a special star-shaped reflection. These inclusions or €flaws€ actually make these gems even more valuable.
Beautiful Flaws
Typically, inclusions are not a positive characteristic that is sought out in gemstones. Diamond inclusions can severely lessen the brilliance and therefore the value of the gem. However, with the case of star sapphires, the flaws are what actually make these gems valuable. Rather than being clear, like most sapphires, these gems are milky and mostly opaque. When viewed with a single strong light source, a six-rayed star forms on the surface of the gem. The light is actually reflecting off of the parallel inclusions inside the gem, and the effect is amazing to behold.
Wearing Star Jewels
It is most common to see a single star sapphire set in a ring or in a pendant. Since these gems are so unique, most people wish to have them displayed in simple and elegant settings. It can be difficult to find perfectly matching star gems for pieces such as earrings, but it is possible. You may have to pay a little extra to own matching star sapphires, but the impression they make can be well worth the price.
Determining Sapphire Value
Star gems are valued based on both their quality and color, just as with regular sapphires. As you are undoubtedly aware, natural gemstones such as rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds vary widely in their color. The most valuable gems are those with €jewel tones,€ which means they have rich and saturated color, or in the case of diamonds, are brilliant white.
Finding The Right Stone For You
Star sapphire value is based on the vibrancy and depth of blue, the clarity of the star reflection, and the size of the stone. If you wish to purchase a large, deep blue, perfect star stone, you could pay $150,000 or more. If you would like a stone that is more modestly sized to wear on a ring, you can purchase a very fine gem for around $6,000. There are also many more affordable options that fall in the $200-$500 range. If you would like to see one of these amazing gems in person, check out a fine jewelry store online or visit a showroom location.
Beautiful Flaws
Typically, inclusions are not a positive characteristic that is sought out in gemstones. Diamond inclusions can severely lessen the brilliance and therefore the value of the gem. However, with the case of star sapphires, the flaws are what actually make these gems valuable. Rather than being clear, like most sapphires, these gems are milky and mostly opaque. When viewed with a single strong light source, a six-rayed star forms on the surface of the gem. The light is actually reflecting off of the parallel inclusions inside the gem, and the effect is amazing to behold.
Wearing Star Jewels
It is most common to see a single star sapphire set in a ring or in a pendant. Since these gems are so unique, most people wish to have them displayed in simple and elegant settings. It can be difficult to find perfectly matching star gems for pieces such as earrings, but it is possible. You may have to pay a little extra to own matching star sapphires, but the impression they make can be well worth the price.
Determining Sapphire Value
Star gems are valued based on both their quality and color, just as with regular sapphires. As you are undoubtedly aware, natural gemstones such as rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds vary widely in their color. The most valuable gems are those with €jewel tones,€ which means they have rich and saturated color, or in the case of diamonds, are brilliant white.
Finding The Right Stone For You
Star sapphire value is based on the vibrancy and depth of blue, the clarity of the star reflection, and the size of the stone. If you wish to purchase a large, deep blue, perfect star stone, you could pay $150,000 or more. If you would like a stone that is more modestly sized to wear on a ring, you can purchase a very fine gem for around $6,000. There are also many more affordable options that fall in the $200-$500 range. If you would like to see one of these amazing gems in person, check out a fine jewelry store online or visit a showroom location.