Large star sapphire:opinions?

[fel]

Hi,

So I am somewhat obsessed with star sapphires, and just bought a sliver ring by a rather well-known Mexican taxco artist, with a star sapphire that was represented to me as synthetic. I suspected it might be real, since this artist was known to work with beautiful gems. Per my GIA specialist, it is actually a real star sapphire, although he said not particularly valuable (I guess to him that means under $1000 or so). He didn't think I should bother with a formal GIA report, because that would cost $175.00. Can you tell me your thoughts on value and whether I should get a report? It is not clear from the picture, but the stone is quite translucent. The star looks murky in some lighting, but is clear and straight with good movement when viewed in direct sun or with a flashlight. Using my cell phone I was not able to get a good photo of the star because the phone shaded the sunlight, but you get an idea. The stone does have some weird color zoning -- bluer at the bottom than the rest.

Given that the ring itself by this artist is probably worth more than I paid (I spent under $200), I think I got a good deal. But I am curious why the GIA guy didn't think the star would come out to more value, given the size the fact that it is translucent, despite a rather shy star.

Thanks,
Fel

 

[chrono]

Valuation of star sapphires are not just based on translucency but also body colour, evenness of body colour, strength of the star, how long the legs are and also how straight they are.

 

[fel]

Here's a better picture of the star. It is very hard to capture.

 

[chrono]

The star is indeed shy and very thin. I am inclined to agree with your gemmologist that it's not worth sending it to a lab, but is likely to be a natural star sapphire.

 

[Lady_Disdain]

The answer depends on what you want the report for. Insurance purposes? Are you planning on reselling it soon? Bragging rights ?

 

[fel]

Good question. I want to know for insurance/self knowledge since I wear jewelry for everyday, and I take the subway to work. Rings by this artist (Antonio Pineda) tend to run about $500 or so, but if it is worth a lot more than that I would want to know. I might adjust my wearing habits based on what I find out, or take out an insurance rider. I only have 2 jewelry items that have significant value, and both have riders.

Fel