法国 20 世纪早期 18 黄金星形蓝宝石袖扣

This exquisite pair of 18ct gold star sapphire cufflinks dates from around 1910, and is a sight to behold. Under direct light, each cabochon reveals a stunning six-point star effect (asterism) on the grey-blue sapphire stones. The cufflinks come with a certificate and are sure to be a showstopper.

A star sapphire is a highly sought-after gemstone renowned for its striking reflection, which creates the illusion of a star inside the stone. Dating back centuries, this stone has long been valued for its beauty and as a protective talisman. The optical effect is known as asterism, from the Latin ‘astrum’ meaning 'star', and is produced by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile. Black star sapphires, however, owe their colour and star shape to hematite, as its shiny surface reflects light in a distinctive way to create a star pattern.

Star sapphires must have just the right amount of rutile to be cut and polished successfully, with domed cabochon cuts being the most popular style for displaying asterism. Imperfections in the top or bottom may also be necessary for optimal star alignment. However, stars that are too perfect may be man-made, signifying that the star has been painted on. Unmodified star sapphires are the best quality and can be heated to deepen their hue, though must be done with caution at moderation temperatures to avoid destroying the rutile silk. Though transparent star sapphires are highly prized, the rising cost of rough sapphires has led to many being heated at extreme temperatures before being sold as transparent stones, making authentic star sapphires increasingly rare. 

Star sapphires were renowned for their mythical properties, which led to them being used as talismans. Explorer Sir Richard Francis Burton was known to carry a large star sapphire during his travels in Asia, reportedly attributing his good fortune to it. Recognising its power, some Christians referred to the gemstone as the stone of destiny, associating its three crossbars with faith, hope, and destiny. Additionally, star sapphires were used as protective amulets and reportedly could ward off the evil eye and keep away evil spirits. It was even said that the wearer of such a sapphire would remain safeguarded even after the gemstone was passed on.

The largest star sapphire ever discovered is a huge 9719.50 carats and is named The Lone Star. It is a lavender blue, and the stone was cut in London in November 1989. The stone is owned by a jeweller called Harold Roper; however, little else is known about the stone or its whereabouts, so it may no longer be in existence.

The Star of Adam is one of the world's most impressive star sapphires, weighing 140.49 carats and boasting a pure blue hue. In 2015, it was estimated to be worth an impressive £300 million. The Black Star of Queensland, however, is the most interesting star sapphire due to its unique backstory. In the 1930s, 12-year-old Roy Spencer discovered the 733-carat gem in a Queensland gem field and returned it to his jeweller father, Harry Spencer. Unaware at the time that sapphires could come in any colour other than blue, Harry initially dismissed the large black crystal as nothing more than an unusual rock, and it served as a doorstop in his family home for some years until its true nature was revealed. A remarkable feature of this star sapphire is its large, bright centre, which is much brighter than the average star sapphire.

These cufflinks look stunning on and are real treasures, as well as a sound investment.