The Star of India Sapphire

Meet the Star of India, a gemstone that graces the Hall of Gems at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, earning its spot among the world's most celebrated gemstones. Let's dive into the fascinating tale of this 563.35-carat star sapphire, cherished for its generous size, striking blue hue, and the enchanting asterism perfectly centered within.

Dating back around two billion years, the Star of India is believed to have originated in Sri Lanka, though its connection to India in name remains a bit of a mystery. Whether acquired during British colonial rule or mistakenly associated with India's renowned sapphires, the stone carries a veil of intriguing origins. Thanks to the generosity of financier J.P. Morgan in the early 20th century, this remarkable gem found its forever home in the distinguished collection of the American Museum of Natural History.

The milky grey-blue allure of the Star of India unfolds as we uncover the role of rutile inclusions, adding a touch of magic with six rays of asterism, a rare feat among star sapphires. What makes this gem truly captivating is the ability to witness the starry phenomenon on both the top and bottom sides.

In a twist of fate, the Star of India found itself at the center of a heist in October 1964. Thieves, orchestrating a daring entry through a toilet window, managed to silence the gem's protective alarm and escape with 22 stones. Thankfully, within two days, the culprits were apprehended, leading to the recovery of most stolen items. Yet, some, including a renowned diamond, continued to elude capture, adding an air of mystery to this captivating gem's storied history.