Montana Sapphire

Origin: Montana, United States of America

Species: Corundum

Hardness: 9.0 on Mohs Scale

Birthstone Month: September

Sapphire in Montana was first unearthed by gold prospectors in 1865 and was mined in conjunction with gold during the Montana gold rush of the 1870's.

The discovery of gold and sapphire in Montana lead to its nickname "The Treasure State."

Found in alluvial deposits, most of the sapphire rough is rounded and water worn.

Typically pale, Montana Sapphire can be heat treated to vibrant shades that span the spectrum of the rainbow with the most common color being an intense blue green.

In 2024, Parlé organized a special trip to Montana and invited a group of our retail partners to experience the origin of Montana sapphire firsthand. Together, we toured the mine, learned about the mining and sorting process, and explored the breathtaking landscape where these gems are found. The trip offered a deeper connection to the stone's journey--from the ground to the finished piece--and gave our partners an unforgettable look at the people and place behind Montana sapphire.

Learn more on our podcast:
Gem Junkies episode: The Finest American Gemstone - Montana Sapphire
Gem Junkies episode: Sapphire Mining At Rock Creek