Are Montana sapphires worth anything?
- Typical Montana sapphire can cost anywhere from $250-$1500 per carat for under 1/2ct to upwards of $7000 per carat for larger than 5 carats.
- Price is dependent on the quality of the gemstone (i.e. color, clarity, cut, and carat).
What is so special about Montana sapphire? One of the most striking differences is their color. Sapphires from Montana are unique in that they naturally occur in light pastels, unique blue-greens, and smoky grays. So, a Montana sapphire could be a calming leaf green or a sky blue-grey.
Accordingly What is the rarest sapphire color? What is the rarest sapphire color? The two rarest sapphire colors are Padparadscha and cornflower blue. The most prized sapphires are Kashmir sapphires of a bright, velvety blue from the mountains in India. The last Kashmir sapphire was mined in 1927.
Besides, What color sapphire is most valuable? Blue Sapphires Color has the greatest influence on a sapphire’s value, and preferred sapphires have strong to vivid color saturation. The most valued blue sapphires are velvety blue to violetish blue, in medium to medium-dark tones. Sapphires with these qualities command the highest prices per carat.
What is Peacock sapphire? The term “Peacock Sapphire,” simply refers to the glorious blue green hue of a Montana sapphire, which is similar to the colorful feathers of a peacock. And while these unique sapphires are a class all their own, their crystal structure composition is the same as a classic cobalt sapphire, made from corundum.
Where is sapphire most commonly found?
Traditionally they have been found in Sri Lanka, Mogok and Kashmir and more recently in Mozambique, Tanzania and especially Madagascar. Magmatic sapphires and rubies are not associated with a mountain building event but were carried to the surface in volcanic events from deep in the earth.
What state is known for sapphires?
Montana is known as the Treasure State because it is rich in many mineral and gemstone sources, including two types of sapphires: the Yogo Sapphire from the central area of the state, and Fancy Montana Sapphires found mostly in the western half of the state.
Who owns the Yogo mine?
Because of this, we are ecstatic to announce: Don Baide has purchased the Vortex mine and will begin operations soon. For a full explanation of the one of a kind geological formation as well as the entire history of the mine, read through our Sapphires of Montana page and our Yogo Sapphire Gemology article.
Why are they called Yogo sapphires?
The term “Yogo sapphire” refers only to sapphires from the Yogo Gulch. The cornflower blue color of the Yogo results from trace amounts of iron and titanium.
Where can I hunt sapphires in Montana?
Although sapphires can be found throughout Montana today, the majority of the finds can be attributed to four major locales: Yogo Gulch, Rock Creek, Dry Cottonwood Creek, and the gravel bars along the Missouri River northeast of Helena.
Can you pan for sapphires?
You can pan for sapphires year round at these locations. Garnets are found worldwide and in 21 states in the U.S., including Montana. Like sapphires, garnets rose to the earth’s surface.
Why are they called Yogo Sapphires?
The term “Yogo sapphire” refers only to sapphires from the Yogo Gulch. The cornflower blue color of the Yogo results from trace amounts of iron and titanium.
Where are the best sapphires found?
The locality considered to produce the finest blue sapphires in the world is Kashmir, India. These amazing stones are mined at 16,500 feet in the Zaskar region. Kashmir blue sapphires are known to have a velvety or sleepy quality that is very desirable.
How rare are Montana sapphires?
Are Montana Sapphires Rare? Montana sapphire is not found in very large rough pieces. Considering that a rough nugget will yield a cut stone only about 1/3 of the original size means that large, fine quality faceted Montana sapphires are very rare.
