Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires: The Rare and Mesmerising Beauty of Australian Sapphires
Australian sapphires are renowned for their breathtaking colours, rich history, and ethical sourcing. Among the rarest and most captivating of these gems is the Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire—a mesmerising phenomenon that collectors and gem enthusiasts treasure. But what exactly is a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire, and what makes it so special? Let’s dive into the mystery and allure of this unique sapphire variety.
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What Is a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire?
A Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire is an exceptionally rare type of parti-coloured Australian sapphire. These remarkable stones display a distinctive colour zoning pattern where a golden or yellow “eye” appears at the heart of the gem, surrounded by a deep blue or green sapphire body. The effect is both striking and mysterious, often resembling the ancient depictions of the Eye of Horus, a powerful symbol of protection, health, and wisdom in Egyptian mythology.
The name Pharaoh’s Eye comes from this resemblance, evoking the image of an all-seeing, celestial gaze trapped within the depths of a gemstone. It’s a natural masterpiece formed over millions of years, with no two stones ever displaying the exact same pattern.
How Do Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires Form?
The unique zoning in a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire is the result of the complex geological processes that take place deep within the Earth. Australian sapphires, particularly those from the Central Queensland Gemfields, form in volcanic basalt deposits. These sapphires undergo slow crystallisation, during which different trace elements, such as iron and titanium, cause color variations.
In the case of Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires, the conditions align in an extraordinary way, allowing a distinct, sharply defined “eye” of gold or yellow to form within the surrounding blue or green sapphire. This natural artistry is why these gems are considered some of the most coveted collector’s pieces in the sapphire world.
A One-of-a-Kind Discovery: The 58.83ct Australian Star Sapphire
One of the most extraordinary examples of a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire is our 58.83ct Australian Star Sapphire. This incredibly unique gem is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, featuring a rare 12-ray star that shimmers across its surface. Adding to its mystique, it also boasts two distinct Pharaoh's Eyes, making it a truly mesmerizing specimen. Green and bronze chevron stripes run through the stone, creating an extraordinary natural pattern that adds depth and dimension.
You can view this extraordinary gem here: 58.83ct Australian Star Sapphire
@betteridge_sapphires This Australian Star Sapphire is worth $92,550! Featuring a 12 ray star, two pharaohs eyes and incredibly unique chevron bands 😍 brought to life by @Unicorn Gems #valuable #gemstones #starsapphire #australiansapphire #betteridgesapphires #thebetteridges #mattbetteridge #unique ♬ Chill and gentle lo-fi/10 minutes(1455687) - nightbird_bgm
The Rarity and Value of Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires
Due to their unique formation, Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires are extremely rare. In the rough, Pharaoh’s Eye stones exhibit a crisp, central eye of gold that stands out against the surrounding sapphire. Depending on the cut, once faceted, the central yellow eye blends with the surrounding colors to create a unique color mix, adding even more individuality to each gemstone. Finding one with a well-defined “eye” is an extraordinary event, making these gems highly sought after by gem collectors, jewellery designers, and connoisseurs of rare Australian sapphires.
The value of a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire depends on several factors:
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Clarity & Cut – The clearer and more precisely cut the stone, the more valuable it becomes.
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Color Contrast – A well-defined golden eye with a deep blue or green body enhances desirability.
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Size – Larger specimens with a perfect Pharaoh’s Eye are incredibly scarce and command premium prices.
Check out this video showing the faceting process of one of our Pharaoh's Eye Sapphires (sorry it's already sold).
Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires in Jewellery
Due to their striking beauty, Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphires make exceptional statement pieces in fine jewellery. Whether set in a bespoke engagement ring, pendant, or collector’s piece, these sapphires offer an otherworldly elegance that captivates all who see them. The strong symbolism of the Eye of Horus adds an extra layer of meaning—representing protection, prosperity, and insight for those who wear it.
Why Choose an Australian Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire?
At Betteridge Sapphires, we take pride in hand mining our sapphires directly from our own mining claims in the Central Queensland Gemfields. This allows us to offer truly authentic Australian sapphires, mined with ethical and sustainable practices. Each gem is a unique treasure, meticulously cut and polished to highlight its natural beauty.
For sapphire lovers who seek something truly extraordinary, a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire is more than just a gemstone—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime discovery. If you’re looking to add one of these rare beauties to your collection or create a custom jewellery piece, explore our selection of authentic Australian sapphires.
Discover Your Own Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire
Interested in owning a Pharaoh’s Eye Sapphire? Contact us at Betteridge Sapphires to find your perfect gem and create a jewellery piece that tells a story as ancient and powerful as the Pharaohs themselves.
Visit www.betteridgesapphires.com.au to explore our ethically sourced Australian sapphires today!
