What is the Black Star of Queensland?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
The Black Star of Queensland is a 733-carat black star sapphire found in Anakie, Queensland, Australia, and for decades it was considered the world's largest gem-quality star sapphire. It was reportedly discovered in the 1930s and spent years used as a doorstop before its value was recognised. The stone displays a strong, well-defined six-rayed asterism, the bright star pattern that appears when a light source moves across the dome of a cabochon-cut sapphire. It is an important piece of Australian gemstone heritage.
Frequently asked questions
- Where was the Black Star of Queensland found?
- It was found in the Anakie sapphire fields in central Queensland, one of Australia's most significant sapphire-mining regions. Queensland and New South Wales together produce a large share of the world's sapphires.
- What makes a star sapphire show a star?
- The star or asterism is caused by tiny needle-like inclusions of rutile aligned in the crystal. When a cabochon is cut from the correct orientation, reflected light traces along these needles and creates the six-rayed star on the surface.
- Is the Black Star of Queensland still the world's largest star sapphire?
- Its record has been challenged over the years, with some very large star sapphires reported from Sri Lanka and elsewhere. The Black Star of Queensland remains one of the most significant, but the category of largest gem-quality star sapphire has been disputed.
Designing a ring
Talk through black star of queensland with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio