2.46 ct. Unheated Montana Sapphire
Color: Medium Very Slightly Greenish-Blue
Clarity: Eye Clean
Origin: El Dorado Bar, Missouri River, Montana
Cut: Rectangular Step
Treatments: None
Measurements: 7.7 x 7 mm
A stunning Montana gem significant on several fronts. Firstly, the size is quite impressive and stones over 2 carat always see a greatly increased demand. Secondly, the color the is superb - a fine and bright medium light blue that is touched with a bit of a green modifier; a classic Montana hue. Next, the stone is natural and unheated; a rare designation for these as almost all Missouri River stones are heated. Finally the cutting is fantastic - an absolute precision US job.
As if this were not quite enough, this stone hides a very special treat. With just the right oblique lighting you can set alight a network of undissolved Rutile silk (the classic indicator of unheated gems) along the hexagonal growth pattern of the Sapphire itself - see the last photo. It is a remarkable effect and one that will be familiar to Montana aficionados; often there is too much and clarity suffers, or the pattern is not well centered. All told, this is one of the best examples we have ever seen to combing size, color and this amazing effect in just the right respective quantities. Magnificent!