Best Asterism
The Star Ruby is a variety of corundum renowned for its captivating asterism. This optical phenomenon arises from tiny inclusions of rutile that create six-rayed star patterns when viewed under light. Historically, Burma (Myanmar) was the primary source of exceptionally vibrant examples. These gemst...
Star sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum that displays the optical phenomenon of asterism, typically forming a six-rayed star shape when viewed under direct light. This effect is caused by microscopic rutile needle inclusions, known as silk, within the stone. To best display the star effec...
Star garnet is a variety of garnet that displays asterism, a star-like reflection caused by oriented inclusions within the stone. The effect is usually seen as four or six rays when the material is cut as a cabochon and viewed under a direct light source. Idaho recognizes star garnet as its official...
Star diopside is a variety of the pyroxene mineral diopside that shows asterism, a star-like reflection of light. The effect is usually caused by aligned inclusions or internal structures, and properly oriented cabochon cuts can display a four-rayed star. The material is commonly black or very dark...
