EL DORADO SAPPHIRE GRAVEL
Montana Gems sapphire gravel from the El Dorado Bar. This gravel bar runs along the Missouri River just outside Helena, Montana. Our sapphire bags contain 2 gallons of natural, unwashed, concentrated Montana sapphire gravel from a private claim. This claim is on the well known El Dorado bar – near Helena, Montana. Different than the alluvial Gem Mountain sapphire deposit near Philipsburg, Montana, these sapphires hail from a placer deposit. These sapphires have worked themselves down through the gravels and concentrated near bedrock. This fact alone makes this material easier to wash than the mountain deposit due to absence of clay. This gem-rich river gravel may also contain rubies, garnets, topaz, hematite, gold and/or other gems and minerals. Sapphires here generally range from .5 to 3 carats, but an occasional large (6+ carats) sapphire crystal is found. The largest sapphire this mine has produced was just under 50 carats, but sapphires of that size are extremely rare. If you like rock-hounding and treasure-hunting, this bag is for you. Like all mining, it’s kind of like buying a lottery ticket!
Most people are unaware of the fabulous sapphires that come from Montana. These Montana gems have been mined for years, starting with industrial grade uses. After the application of heat-treating was introduced, the quality of these gems could be improved. This process improved the color and clarity, making them true contenders in the gem world. The color of most of the Montana sapphires isn’t the typical deep blue that we’re used to seeing from stones from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, or Australia – often seen marketed in the chain jewelry stores. Heat-treating can improve the color of these gems but they have their own unique “Montana sapphire” hues. Those familiar with these fantastic gems can recognize the color and sparkle that these beautiful sapphires are famous for.
Check out our full line of gem gravels to see which type fits your style!
Sorry – No Guarantees. This is for entertainment purposes only. Not intended to be a retirement plan.
