Rosser Reeves Star Ruby-Largest and Finest

What is a Star Ruby?

What causes the Star effect?

A Star Ruby is usually cut and polished as a cabochon-flat base, rounded smooth top. Deposits of Titanium Oxide are found within the Corundum-Ruby or Sapphire-and typically arrange themselves such that when light enters the stone and is reflected around an Asterism or Star Pattern is seen. Most usually 6 pointed, but sometimes 12 points are possible.  The Titanium Oxide is not only responsible for the asterism but also adds to the silkiness and translucency of the Ruby-or Sapphire.

Rosser Reeves Star Ruby 138.7 cts

This particular Star Ruby is a relatively recent find. Not much is known about it before 1950 when it was purchased for Paul Fisher by his Father.
Most believe it to have originated in Sri Lanka where most of the best quality Star Rubies are from, and more specifically from the Kaler Ganga River.
More speculation gives it about 50-100yrs of existence prior to its emergence in the London Gem Markets, probably passing from hand to hand by Wealthy Europeans.
But that is all speculation.
What we do know is that Rosser Reeves purchased this Star Ruby in 1953 with a star that was mis-centered and  heavily scratched. He proceeded to have it re-polished so that the star was centered and the Stone was smooth. Going from 140 cts to its now 138.7 carat weight.
We also know that Mr Reeves carried “His Baby” around in his pocket as a Lucky Stone, he so hated to be parted from the Stone.
Unlike other large stones, no drama or intrigue.  Just the appreciation of a Beautiful Stone.
Then in 1965 he and his wife donated the stone to the Smithsonian so that others could enjoy it’s Beauty.

And what to look for when buying a Star Ruby?

     1. A centered asterism-I like that word.
     2. A Sharp and well-defined asterism.
     3. A silvery white asterism.
     4. The arms of the star should reach all the way to the base of the Ruby.
     5. Desirable Color and Translucency of the Stone itself.

FYI. Over $25 Million for this Particular Stone.

Good Luck finding all of this in a single stone, but now you know what you are looking for...