Star Ruby - Eternal Gemstone

What are Star Rubies?
Star Rubies are a rare variety of the gemstone Ruby. These magnificent gems display a sharp six-rayed star which seems to glide and shimmer magically across the surface of the gem when the latter is moved. This is caused due to an optical phenomenon known as "Asterism". The star is best visible when the star ruby is seen in a single light source such as sunlight and spotlight.

What causes the Star-Effect?
Star-effect or "asterism" is caused by the dense inclusions of tiny fibers of rutile (also known as "silk"). The stars are caused by the light reflecting from needle-like inclusions of rutile aligned perpendicular to the rays of the star. However, since rutile is always present in star rubies, they are never completely transparent. In fact, star ruby is one of those few gemstones which actually require inclusions (i.e. rutile).

Are Star Rubies rare?
Today, out of every 100 rough corundum (ruby and sapphire) mined; only three will have stars apparent after being cut into cabochons. Out of these three, one will have a poor color but a good star; one will have a poor star but a good color and only one out of hundred will have both a good star and a good color!
Most original sources of star rubies such as Mogok (Burma) have run out of supplies. Worldwide production today is yielding a very small quantity of fine stars (especially in sizes above 5 carats). Star rubies are becoming rare as most rough today is cut into faceted stones after heating instead of being cut into cabochons to display the star.

Star Ruby Myths and Legends:
Traditionally, star rubies were worn by knights in the battlefields to protect themselves from the enemy. Local tales in Karnataka (India) say that if it is worn as a visible pendant or as a headgear then anyone who faces you as an enemy looses half his valour. The power of star ruby is said to be the highest during full moon.
Star Ruby is said to pep up internal strength, ward off tensions, distress the mind and drive away stress related problems like migraine, insomnia, and hysteria. The healing powers of gemstones remain a controversial issue, but are mentioned since ages by healers, shamans and medicine men. Whether it's a fact or a placebo effect doesn't matter, if it helps.

Famous Star Rubies:
The Delong Star Ruby resides in the Natural History Museum in New York City. It weighs 100.32 carats. Discovered in Burma during the early part of the twentieth century, it was sold by Martin Ehrmann to Edith Haggin DeLong, who donated it to the museum. In 1964 the Delong Star Ruby was the object of an infamous burglary, carried out by Jack Murphy, known as Murph the Surf, and two other men. It was then ransomed and recovered. The Delong Star was found at a designated drop off site - a phone booth in Florida.
The Rosser Reeves Ruby is one of the world's largest and finest star rubies. Weighing 138.7 carats, it is not only clearer and more translucent that the Delong Star, but also possesses a sharp six-rayed star. This Sri Lankan stone is renowned for its great color and well-defined star pattern. Advertising mogul Rosser Reeves, who donated the piece to the Smithsonian in 1965, carried it around as a lucky stone, referring to it as his baby. He often stated that he had acquired the stone at an auction in Istanbul in the mid-1950s. He actually bought the stone from Robert C. Nelson Jr. of New York who was acting on behalf of Firestone & Parson of Boston. Firestone & Parson were selling the stone for Mr. Paul Fisher of New York. Mr. Robert Fisher, Paul's father, had bought the ruby at an auction in London in 1953. At the time the ruby then weighed just over 140 carats, but was very heavily scratched, and a few carats were removed in the repolishing. The repolishing also helped to center the stone's star. Articles in the New York World-Telegram and the Sun in 1953 mentioned this fabulous gemstone.

Zodiac / Birthstone Information:
Ruby is the birthstone for July, and the Capricorn zodiac sign. The top quality of ruby is Star Ruby. Ruby is also used to celebrate a couple's 15th and 40th anniversaries.

What to Look for while buying a Star Ruby:
The value of Star rubies is basically influenced by two things: (a) The strength and sharpness of the star, (b) Intensity and attractiveness of body colour.

Sharpness of the Star: The star should be sharp and silvery / milky white. The best way to test the sharpness of the star is to look at the star ruby in sunlight with the dome facing the sun. All six prongs should be straight and equally prominent. The complete star should be centered in the middle of the gem, but should also be able to glide effortlessly around the cabochon.

Colour of the gemstone: Generally rubies are red. But star ruby is usually not red. Most star rubies are available in pinkish-red, purplish-red or purplish-brown colour. Red Rubies with a perfect star are very very rare and may cost a fortune.

Cutting: Cutting is very important to exhibit the star effect in ruby. They need to be cut into medium to high, domed cabochons to get the perfect star effect. The cabochons must be round or oval-shaped. The stone should not be too flat on the top or too heavy on the bottom. Many bottoms of stars are kept unpolished so that the light is trapped inside the gemstone.

Caring about your star ruby:
Though there are very few chemicals that attack Star Rubies, it is best to clean your star ruby with warm soap water and a toothbrush. Cleaning your Star Ruby in Ultrasonic cleaners is not recommended.

Treatments & Synthetics:
Genuine Star Rubies are usually not heat treated because heating can dissolve the rutile (silk) which causes the star to form in the first place.
Beware of Synthetic (Lab-made) Star Rubies! Synthetic star rubies jump out as way too perfect looking, i.e. a perfect star, a super clean stone, and great color. In natural star rubies the distribution of colour is often uneven, in stripes and spots - which is the best way to judge with the naked eye whether the star ruby is natural or synthetic. However, sometimes it may be a tough task to distinguish between natural and synthetic gems and if you run into any such stone, be sure to ask for a Reputed Gem Laboratory certificate from the seller. No doubt synthetic star rubies are much cheaper than natural ones, but they may offer little or no resale value.

Advise on Star Ruby Jewellery:
Star Rubies are available in all forms of jewellery. However, Star Ruby Rings and Pendants are usually preferred. To maximize its astrological and healing effects, it is advised that the gemstone should be mounted in jewellery in such a way that the bottom of the stone touches to skin. Star Ruby can also be kept as a loose gemstone. Rubies look best in Yellow Gold Jewellery, though it really depends on the choice of the wearer.

To conclude, if you are looking out for a gemstone, but not sure which one to buy, search no more, get yourself this mystical gem! Send this page to:

Author Bio
Author: Harshil Zaveri
For more information on Star Rubies, visit The Star Ruby Shop at www.starruby.in/store/

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Related Jewelry Articles
©2006 ArticleGeek.com: Free Website Content - All Rights Reserved

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Eternal Quality of Eternity Rings in Australia

Originally known as anniversary rings, eternity ringshave always signified the the bond between lovers. It is not at all a surprise why these rings have come to be associated with the concept of love considering their craft and form. Commonly, these rings would be studded with diamonds, giving them a sparkle that can captivate anyone, especially women. This is why, in tradition, men are expected to be the ones to give their partner these matching rings as gifts. From there, the rings shall serve to commemorate an event or the relationship shared between the two itself. Since being made more affordable, the popularity of sharing these rings have only become all the more popular.

As said before, eternity rings are often given to a special someone, in commemoration of a significant milestone for either one or both of them. It symbolizes their joy as well as their love for each other. Some instances where these rings can be given as gifts are proposals, anniversaries, childbirth or any other achievement in the couple's life together that calls for an intimate celebration. Regardless of what is being celebrated, however, the rings are meant to stand for something of deeper sentiment. As implied with the word eternity applied to the name of the rings, they are supposed to embody the promise of eternal love between the two people who share them. Just as the endless loop of the ring's shape, there is neither a beginning nor an end to the pair's love for each other.

The Australian fine jewelleryspecifically serves well to the needs of the couple's in the country. They are able to provide a lot of variety to comply to the varying preferences of different people. For an instance, an eternity ring can come in either full or half circle. The choice is completely up to the couple who will wear them. For this, the half-band is more commonly preferred since it is easier to re-size and allows more comfort during wear.

An eternity ring can also be versatile as to come in different styles that cater to people of different tastes. Modern and traditional pieces are available with different materials used such as platinum, titanium or varying types of gold. WIth the diamonds on the rings, the variety is garnered from the different type of cuts that can be applied such as emerald cut and princess cut. For a more elaborate eternity ring however, there are instances where two cut styles are used alternately. This gives a further amount of sophistication and sparkle for the ring.

For all special purposes and occasions, these rings are definitely some of the most meaningful gifts that someone can give to their partner. In a lot of aspects, it holds something very precious that is shared between two people in love. In any case, the most important thing is that it signifies something that is true. Moreover, it should not be forgotten that Australian fine jewellery has the best eternity diamond rings that fully embody their purpose.

To learn more visit http://www.mininginsider.com.au

Dennise Gilchrist is a designer from the Brisbane, Australia. She once worked as a model for Karen Egren Jewelleries and is now a freelance fashion critic. Her interests include music, modelling, conceptual jewellery design, and crafting. She now lives in Canberra with her husband Aaron. For more information, visit us at http://www.beejewel.com.au/ .

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Star Ruby - Eternal Gemstone

What are Star Rubies?
Star Rubies are a rare variety of the gemstone Ruby. These magnificent gems display a sharp six-rayed star which seems to glide and shimmer magically across the surface of the gem when the latter is moved. This is caused due to an optical phenomenon known as "Asterism". The star is best visible when the star ruby is seen in a single light source such as sunlight and spotlight.

What causes the Star-Effect?
Star-effect or "asterism" is caused by the dense inclusions of tiny fibers of rutile (also known as "silk"). The stars are caused by the light reflecting from needle-like inclusions of rutile aligned perpendicular to the rays of the star. However, since rutile is always present in star rubies, they are never completely transparent. In fact, star ruby is one of those few gemstones which actually require inclusions (i.e. rutile).

Are Star Rubies rare?
Today, out of every 100 rough corundum (ruby and sapphire) mined; only three will have stars apparent after being cut into cabochons. Out of these three, one will have a poor color but a good star; one will have a poor star but a good color and only one out of hundred will have both a good star and a good color!
Most original sources of star rubies such as Mogok (Burma) have run out of supplies. Worldwide production today is yielding a very small quantity of fine stars (especially in sizes above 5 carats). Star rubies are becoming rare as most rough today is cut into faceted stones after heating instead of being cut into cabochons to display the star.

Star Ruby Myths and Legends:
Traditionally, star rubies were worn by knights in the battlefields to protect themselves from the enemy. Local tales in Karnataka (India) say that if it is worn as a visible pendant or as a headgear then anyone who faces you as an enemy looses half his valour. The power of star ruby is said to be the highest during full moon.
Star Ruby is said to pep up internal strength, ward off tensions, distress the mind and drive away stress related problems like migraine, insomnia, and hysteria. The healing powers of gemstones remain a controversial issue, but are mentioned since ages by healers, shamans and medicine men. Whether it's a fact or a placebo effect doesn't matter, if it helps.

Famous Star Rubies:
The Delong Star Ruby resides in the Natural History Museum in New York City. It weighs 100.32 carats. Discovered in Burma during the early part of the twentieth century, it was sold by Martin Ehrmann to Edith Haggin DeLong, who donated it to the museum. In 1964 the Delong Star Ruby was the object of an infamous burglary, carried out by Jack Murphy, known as Murph the Surf, and two other men. It was then ransomed and recovered. The Delong Star was found at a designated drop off site - a phone booth in Florida.
The Rosser Reeves Ruby is one of the world's largest and finest star rubies. Weighing 138.7 carats, it is not only clearer and more translucent that the Delong Star, but also possesses a sharp six-rayed star. This Sri Lankan stone is renowned for its great color and well-defined star pattern. Advertising mogul Rosser Reeves, who donated the piece to the Smithsonian in 1965, carried it around as a lucky stone, referring to it as his baby. He often stated that he had acquired the stone at an auction in Istanbul in the mid-1950s. He actually bought the stone from Robert C. Nelson Jr. of New York who was acting on behalf of Firestone & Parson of Boston. Firestone & Parson were selling the stone for Mr. Paul Fisher of New York. Mr. Robert Fisher, Paul's father, had bought the ruby at an auction in London in 1953. At the time the ruby then weighed just over 140 carats, but was very heavily scratched, and a few carats were removed in the repolishing. The repolishing also helped to center the stone's star. Articles in the New York World-Telegram and the Sun in 1953 mentioned this fabulous gemstone.

Zodiac / Birthstone Information:
Ruby is the birthstone for July, and the Capricorn zodiac sign. The top quality of ruby is Star Ruby. Ruby is also used to celebrate a couple's 15th and 40th anniversaries.

What to Look for while buying a Star Ruby:
The value of Star rubies is basically influenced by two things: (a) The strength and sharpness of the star, (b) Intensity and attractiveness of body colour.

Sharpness of the Star: The star should be sharp and silvery / milky white. The best way to test the sharpness of the star is to look at the star ruby in sunlight with the dome facing the sun. All six prongs should be straight and equally prominent. The complete star should be centered in the middle of the gem, but should also be able to glide effortlessly around the cabochon.

Colour of the gemstone: Generally rubies are red. But star ruby is usually not red. Most star rubies are available in pinkish-red, purplish-red or purplish-brown colour. Red Rubies with a perfect star are very very rare and may cost a fortune.

Cutting: Cutting is very important to exhibit the star effect in ruby. They need to be cut into medium to high, domed cabochons to get the perfect star effect. The cabochons must be round or oval-shaped. The stone should not be too flat on the top or too heavy on the bottom. Many bottoms of stars are kept unpolished so that the light is trapped inside the gemstone.

Caring about your star ruby:
Though there are very few chemicals that attack Star Rubies, it is best to clean your star ruby with warm soap water and a toothbrush. Cleaning your Star Ruby in Ultrasonic cleaners is not recommended.

Treatments & Synthetics:
Genuine Star Rubies are usually not heat treated because heating can dissolve the rutile (silk) which causes the star to form in the first place.
Beware of Synthetic (Lab-made) Star Rubies! Synthetic star rubies jump out as way too perfect looking, i.e. a perfect star, a super clean stone, and great color. In natural star rubies the distribution of colour is often uneven, in stripes and spots - which is the best way to judge with the naked eye whether the star ruby is natural or synthetic. However, sometimes it may be a tough task to distinguish between natural and synthetic gems and if you run into any such stone, be sure to ask for a Reputed Gem Laboratory certificate from the seller. No doubt synthetic star rubies are much cheaper than natural ones, but they may offer little or no resale value.

Advise on Star Ruby Jewellery:
Star Rubies are available in all forms of jewellery. However, Star Ruby Rings and Pendants are usually preferred. To maximize its astrological and healing effects, it is advised that the gemstone should be mounted in jewellery in such a way that the bottom of the stone touches to skin. Star Ruby can also be kept as a loose gemstone. Rubies look best in Yellow Gold Jewellery, though it really depends on the choice of the wearer.

To conclude, if you are looking out for a gemstone, but not sure which one to buy, search no more, get yourself this mystical gem! Send this page to:

Author Bio
Author: Harshil Zaveri
For more information on Star Rubies, visit The Star Ruby Shop at www.starruby.in/store/

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Related Jewelry Articles
©2006 ArticleGeek.com: Free Website Content - All Rights Reserved

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The Eternal Charm of Hatton Garden Eternity Rings- an Overview (Anibran)

Eternity rings are perhaps the finest way to express the eternal love and compassion a couple has for one another. It is a perfect wedding gift for your would-be spouse and an excellent way to rekindle the love once again on your wedding anniversary or any other special occasion like her birthday! Each single diamond studded on the ring abounds countless emotions and bond the couple shares. There would be no exaggeration in stating that diamonds are the soul of the rings. The significance of diamonds for humans can be estimated from the fact that these breathtaking precious gems constitute an integral part of the jewellery pieces for almost all occasions be it your wedding, engagement, wedding anniversary or birthday.

Couples searching for a perfect diamond engagement, wedding or eternity ring in London would be enthralled to know that one of the leading direct diamond jewellers in the UK, Hearts of London has recently added more platinum engagement rings, wedding bands, eternity rings, et al to its breathtaking Signature Collection. The collection is available online at Hearts of London's website and offline at its Hatton Garden showroom.

Quality Commitment
As a leading direct diamond jeweller in the United Kingdom, Hearts of London is committed to offering outstanding value for your money. For this reason, Hearts of London gemmologists manufacture diamond jewellery pieces by paying attention to the minutest of detail. The jewellery pieces are crafted using finest quality precious metals and diamonds that are guaranteed conflict-free, ethically-sourced and GIA graded.

Diamond Education and Consultation

Furthermore, realising that diamonds are not purchased routinely and there are endless traps for the unwary, Hearts of London gemmologists have designed a comprehensive diamond education guide that provides detailed information about the key characteristics (like the 4Cs- Cut, Clarity, Colour and carat weight) that need consideration when buying a quality diamond. The guide is available online at the website for quite reference.

Understanding the reluctance most clients have in buying diamonds and diamond jewellery pieces online. Hearts of London encourages them to visit its Hatton Garden showroom where they can order their diamond engagement rings, wedding rings and jewellery pieces for other occasions to suit their style, like and preference. Personal jewellery and gemmological consultations can be arranged with the gemmologists at Hearts of London's Hatton Garden showroom. However, please note that this requires prior appointment. Clients can call or email Hearts of London to arrange the appointment.

This article is contributed by a professional article writer and has been efficient in providing useful information about Princess Cut Diamonds, Solitaire Engagement Rings For more information you can visit: http://www.heartsoflondon.co.uk

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