Cabochon star sapphires have always been deemed particularly special--used as a talisman to protect against the 'evil eye', with the three crossing bands of light representing faith, hope, and destiny.
Their popularity was certainly enhanced by their association with Hollywood celebrities...the star sapphires in these personal collections were very large, and the owners were not afraid to wear them...bigger was obviously better.
William Powell (1892-1984) purchased star sapphires for both Carole Lombard (pictured) and Jean Harlow. To own fabulous jewels places these stars of the silver screen in stark contrast to today's actresses, who big 'red carpet' jewels are normally borrowed and very rarely owned.
Excerpt from Sapphire: A Celebration of Color by Joanna Hardy