Jewelry created from precious gemstones has long been considered the most desirable gift when the occasions call for presents that are more special than the ordinary. Ornamental gemstones are found in all colors and shapes, but there is one that stands alone in uniqueness of appearance and beauty. The blue star sapphire ring is always an eye catching and unusual ornament. The stone itself is unlike the more commonly seen jewelry stones, in that it is not a stone that has been faceted as a ruby or sapphire would be. The difference is that the look of a blue star sapphire ring is made unique by the way the stone appears to the eye when viewed beneath a light. On the top surface of the cabochon cut stone, the eye can see six rays of light that intersect to form the star. This is the lure and appeal that set this stone apart from the other jewelry-set stones that are commonly worn.
The cause of the visual star pattern that graces the top of the stone is a phenomenon in gemology known as asterism. This is achieved by the inclusion of an element known as rutile which is in the stone. The way the stone is cut, with the domed cabochon shape, will maximize the effect of the star that appears on the stone. The natural asterism is visible to the eye only when a strong overhead light source is present, such as a halogen light or directed spotlight. The most common stars seen in the star sapphire ring will have six needles of light, but there are twelve pointed stars as well. The clarity of the star pattern is influenced by the density of the rutile inclusions in the stone. The fact that the star effect is due to inclusions is the reason that the stone itself is never transparent in the way that faceted gemstones are. The maximizing of the star effect in each stone is done by the gemcutter’s careful shaping of the cabochon dome and the deliberately unpolished underside which will prevent light from escaping and diminishing the look of the star.
There are many styles of ring that can give the gem the showing that it deserves. The blue star sapphire ring is a beautiful choice as a ring for any finger. The smaller stones are perfect as a pinky accent ring, to add just that touch of color and shine to the jewelry wardrobe. The larger the stone, the more pronounced the effect, and the more simple the setting can be as well. The shine of the stone’s star effect is beautifully complemented by the use of white gold metal, although the warmth of the yellow gold shades are equally as beautiful.
Caring for the blue star sapphire ring is an essential part of owning it. It is best to clean it using just warm soapy water and a gentle handling of the stone and setting. The ring can be left to soak in the warm water for ten minutes if it needs a more thorough cleaning and when rinsed, it should be dried with a soft cloth. It is never advisable to use any kind of tool to clean this stone or ring. When storing the ring, it is best to keep it carefully stashed in a jewelry box away from other pieces so that the sapphire does not scratch another piece of jewelry.
The beauty and allure of the blue star sapphire ring makes it a sought-after piece for those who see them, and a treasured possession for those who are lucky enough to own them.