3.38 Ct. Star Ruby from Burma (Myanmar)

One exquisite translucent star ruby is offered by The Natural Ruby Company, a fine 3.38 carat oval shape gem, measuring 10.30 x 7.67 x 4.12 mm, a classic cabochon cut that showcases a compelling six ray star, and a rich red hue with intense color intensity. The gem is slightly included at eye level, an important indicator of authenticity for a natural star ruby, and the inclusions have been aligned in a way that produces a sharp asterism, visible when the stone is oriented correctly under a single light source. The polish is excellent, the dome is well proportioned for optimal star mobility, and the overall translucency allows light to interact with the internal silk so that the star appears to glide across the surface, enhancing visual depth. This piece has no enhancement, a fact that preserves its natural characteristics and value, and it is from Burma Myanmar, a provenance that is highly prized in the gem trade for producing some of the finest star rubies known. The combination of weight, cut, polish, and untreated origin makes this cabochon a desirable selection for collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate authentic natural phenomena in gemstones.

To understand why this ruby is special, consider how asterism forms, it is produced by oriented micron sized silk inclusions, typically rutile, that scatter light along specific crystallographic directions, resulting in a six ray star that appears as a luminous cross on the domed surface when illuminated. In this specimen the silk network is dense enough to create a distinct star, yet distributed in a manner that preserves translucency and color saturation, an ideal balance for a star ruby. The slight inclusions noted in the clarity grade are the very elements that create the star, and when they are present without treatment they speak to the stone being natural and authentic. Burmese origin adds further cachet because historical and modern mines in that region produce rubies with a unique combination of red saturation and optical phenomena, natural factors that often lead to strong market desirability. The absence of heat or other enhancements keeps the gemstone in its original geologic state, appealing to buyers who prefer unaltered material for investment or heirloom purposes.

When considering settings, the cabochon form and prominent star demand a mounting that showcases the optical effect, the ideal approach is to orient the gem so the star aligns with the top of the finished piece, and to use a secure bezel or low prong design that protects the dome while allowing light to fall directly onto the surface. For everyday wear a bezel set ring or a suspended pendant with a protective bezel will reduce the risk of abrasion to the dome, and a medium to high mounting will prevent contact with hard surfaces while still keeping the star readily visible. Metal choices influence perception of color, warm tones such as yellow gold or rose gold tend to enhance the red warmth, while white metals like platinum or white gold can provide a contemporary contrast that emphasizes the gems vividness. For bespoke settings consider a halo of small diamonds or fine milgrain detailing to accent the central cabochon without detracting from the star, and for collectors seeking versatility a custom mounting that allows the stone to be removed for cleaning or inspection is a practical option.

Care and long term stewardship are straightforward, store the ruby separately from harder gems to avoid scratches, clean the gem gently with warm water soap and a soft brush, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and prolonged high heat, and do not assume ultrasonic cleaners are appropriate because internal silk and natural inclusions can react unpredictably to mechanical agitation. We can provide professional guidance on care and appropriate mounting techniques, and upon request a gemological report or photographic documentation of the star effect can be supplied to accompany the purchase, ensuring provenance and confidence in the untreated status. This 3.38 carat Burmese star ruby is an investment in natural beauty and rarity, a one of a kind gem that combines striking asterism, intense red color, and unenhanced origin, and The Natural Ruby Company stands behind the authenticity and presentation of this piece, offering personalized service to discuss sizing, custom settings, certification, and worldwide secure delivery so that the stone may be enjoyed for generations.