French Early 20th Century 18ct Gold Star Sapphire Cufflinks
SKU7/P
Description
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.
Details
Date & Origin 1900s,
Era Edwardian (1901-1914)
Measurements
Material 18ct Gold
Hallmarks French Eagle
Condition Very good
What Zuleika says
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Care Recommendation
Any questions?
Get in touch with Zuleika about the French Early 20th Century 18ct Gold Star Sapphire Cufflinks ()
Email: zuleika@parkinandgerrish.com
Call: +44 (0) 2072062420
WhatsApp: +44 (0) 7766718842
FAQORDER FAQs
Do you offer layaway? Can I pay in instalments?
Yes! We have different ways of doing layaways. Paypal is most popular or via bank transfer. We try to be as flexible as possible, so if you tell us what you need, we will agree the layaway terms on a case by case basis with you. We usually offer a paypal invoice over the period of 3 months, but can happily extend to 6 months if needed. We do not charge interest for instalment payments. Paypal invoice allows you to pay a partial payment whenever is convenient for you.
A 20% up front, non refundable, deposit is required to hold the item, and this counts towards the item total. Payment is then made over the following weeks and the final payment must be made by the agreed end date.
Please note, items bought on layaway are returnable, but the deposit is non refundable. Items are shipped once payment is completed. If payment is not made within the agreed time frame, we will try to work with you to agree a solution, but reserve the right to refund your money (bar the deposit) and re-list the item Please contact us directly to discuss further.
Does it come with a certificate?
Yes, we provide a Parkin & Gerrish certificate with your purchase. All of our jewellery is checked and examined in house by Zuleika who is a professional gemologist and a FGA (Fellow of the Gemmology Association) and DGA (Diamond Member of the Gemmological Association).
The Parkin & Gerrish certificate is perfect to give to your insurance company along with a copy of the invoice. Please note, the certificate we provide is not a gemological certificate.
Some of our higher end jewellery will come with accredited gemological/diamond certification from a lab. If it does, it will be mentioned in the description. If it has not been lab certified, it is possible to provide such a certificate from a reputable London gemological lab. There is an additional non refundable charge for this, approximately £80 -120 plus VAT. Please get in touch with us to find out more.
Can I try on before I buy? I need help deciding!
As we are online-only, we offer virtual appointments with Zoom, WhatsApp & Signal video. We are more than happy to provide any additional photos, videos or details about the item/s via email and WhatsApp/Signal. Zuleika will be delighted to be your very own personal virtual shopping assistant. Do get in touch with us.
If you order jewellery from us and it doesn’t satisfy you in any way, we offer a full refund policy - please read for further details.
How long will my order take to arrive?
We aim to dispatch as soon as possible and usually within 24 hours but there might be a delay up to 72 hours. Please allow an additional 5 working days to the delivery time for resizing of rings. Please get in touch if you are wishing to have your item arrive for a particular date and we will try our best to accommodate.
Can a product be engraved?
Yes, please contact us for further details on cost and availability. Any piece that is engraved is a final sale.
Shipping & Returns
How much does shipping cost?
All shipping information can be found on our shipping page.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we use Royal Mail and DHL to ship worldwide. We use secure and insured services. Read our shipping policy here.
Do you ship to P.O.boxes?
We are currently unable to ship to P.O. boxes
What is your return policy?
All return information can be found on our Return and Refund page.
Sustainable Packaging
Sustainable Packaging
Our gift boxes are plastic free, fully recyclable and FSC certified. They are high quality rigid luxury boxes that look and feel amazing. They have been beautifully designed by Zuleika and Oliver and best of all, made in the UK!
Our jewellery is presented inside the gift box in a green presentation box, as well as, a luxury reusable pouch and tissue paper. Our boxes, pouches and tissue paper are made in the UK and support small businesses.
Our postage packaging is also recyclable. You can read more here about how we are sustainable.
Made in the UK
Parkin & Gerrish are very proud to be not just a British Brand, but also a small family run business. We have personally hand-picked all our jewellery, as well as our manufactured jewellery, our packaging and even our jewellery cleaner from all over the UK, supporting local and small businesses.
The point is, we know exactly where everything comes from and how it is made. We have homegrown ethics and principles, we care about people, customers, suppliers and our planet and the next generation.
Signature Gift Wrapping
Every purchase is lovingly gift wrapped by Zuleika herself.
We felt it was important, as we are not a physical shop and online only, you have the ultimate experience of opening our beautiful packaging. Nothing feels better than receiving jewellery.
We can include a gift messages too - please add to your order note or send us an email.
Oh and do not worry, your secret is safe with us! We have very discreet packaging on the outside – we also do not want the postman to know the box he is carrying contains jewellery!
Sustainability
Did you know?
Buying antique, vintage and second hand jewellery gives these pieces a second lease of life!
There is a big shift, not just within the fashion industry, but in the jewellery industry too. Vintage is no longer just for clothing. We find more shoppers are looking to the craftsmanship of the past for their everyday jewellery.