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Montana is known for its majestic landscapes and outdoor adventures. What many people don’t know is that Montana is also home to some of the world’s finest sapphires. Montana sapphires are highly sought after for their unique colors and superior quality. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Montana sapphires, from their history to their mining process and the different colors available.

History of Montana Sapphires

Sapphires were first discovered in Montana in the late 1800s near Helena. The first sapphire mine was established in 1892, and since then, thousands of carats of high-quality sapphires have been extracted from Montana’s soil.

Montana sapphires gained popularity in the early 1900s when they were used to create beautiful and intricate jewelry designs. In the 1980s, Montana sapphires became even more popular when they were featured in Princess Diana’s engagement ring.

Montana Sapphire Mining Process

Montana sapphires are mined from deposits in gravel beds and alluvial deposits. The mining process starts with miners digging up the gravel and transporting it to a washing plant where it is washed to remove any dirt or debris.

The gravel is then sorted by size, and the sapphires are separated using a process called gravity separation. The sapphires are then further sorted by color and quality, with the highest quality stones being set aside for jewelry making. The mining process is labor-intensive and requires specialized equipment, making it expensive compared to other forms of gemstone mining.

Colors of Montana Sapphires

Montana sapphires come in a range of colors, with the most common being blue and green. Blue sapphires are the most popular and range from pale to deep navy blue. Green sapphires are less common and are often called “Montana fancy sapphires.” These sapphires can range from light to dark forest green. Montana sapphires also come in shades of yellow, pink, and orange, although these colors are less common.

Quality of Montana Sapphires

Montana sapphires are known for their exceptional quality, with many stones being considered as “gem quality.” The quality of a Montana sapphire is determined by its color, clarity, and cut. The most valuable Montana sapphires are those that are deep in color, free from inclusions, and have a well-cut surface that maximizes their brilliance. The quality of Montana sapphires is also determined by their carat weight, with larger stones being more valuable than smaller ones.

Montana Sapphire Jewelry

Montana sapphires are highly prized for their unique colors and exceptional quality, making them a popular choice for jewelry designers. Montana sapphires are often used to create engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

The most popular color for Montana sapphire jewelry is blue, with many designers using the stones to create vintage-inspired pieces reminiscent of the Art Deco era. Montana sapphires are also popular for their versatility, as they can be paired with various metals, including white gold, yellow gold, and platinum.

Buying Montana Sapphires

If you’re interested in purchasing a Montana sapphire, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, ensure you’re buying from a reputable dealer specializing in Montana sapphires. Look for a dealer who has a good reputation and who has been in business for several years.

Second, be prepared to pay a premium price for a Montana sapphire, as they are considered to be among the highest quality sapphires in the world. Finally, make sure you choose a sapphire that’s right for you, whether you’re looking for a classic blue stone or something more unique like a green or yellow sapphire.

Conclusion

Montana sapphires are a hidden gem in the world of gemstones, prized for their unique colors and exceptional quality. Their rich history and labor-intensive mining process make them valuable to any jewelry collection. When buying a Montana sapphire, make sure you choose a reputable dealer and be prepared to pay a premium price for a stone that will last a lifetime.

Discover the elegance of nature with Montague’s Jewelers today! Join our family and experience the highest level of service and integrity as you celebrate life’s special moments with our timeless pieces. Don’t forget to take advantage of our exceptional jewelry appraisals to ensure your treasures are valued and cared for properly.