What is a natural ruby gemstone?

A natural ruby gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum, colored red by traces of chromium. It forms naturally in the earth and is not lab-created or synthetic.

Are your ruby gemstones certified?

Yes, all our ruby gemstones are certified by trusted gemological labs such as GIA or IGI. Each stone comes with full disclosure of origin and treatment status.

What is the difference between heated and unheated rubies?

Heated rubies have been thermally enhanced to improve color and clarity. Unheated rubies are completely natural and untreated, making them rarer and more valuable.

What countries do your rubies come from?

Our rubies are ethically sourced from renowned locations such as Burma (Myanmar), Mozambique, and Madagascar, each known for producing high-quality rubies.

How durable are ruby gemstones?

Rubies score 9 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them extremely durable and suitable for everyday jewelry like rings, earrings, and pendants.

What shapes are available in your ruby collection?

We offer rubies in a variety of cuts including oval, cushion, pear, round, and emerald. Each cut is chosen to enhance the gem's natural brilliance and color.

How do I care for my ruby gemstone?

To care for your ruby gemstone, clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Store it separately to prevent scratches.

Can I use a ruby for an engagement ring?

Absolutely. Rubies are a popular choice for engagement rings due to their symbolic meaning of love and strength, as well as their exceptional durability.

Article: 🏔️ Montana Sapphires: America’s Hidden Gem of the Rocky Mountains

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Loose Montana sapphires in teal, green, and lavender tones on a gemstone tray

Jul 21, 2025American Gemstones

🏔️ Montana Sapphires: America’s Hidden Gem of the Rocky Mountains

🇺🇸 Introduction: A Gem Born in the Rockies

Montana sapphires are North America's answer to the world's fascination with rare, colorful, and meaningful gemstones. Mined in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, these gems are not only beautiful — they are also ethically sourced, proudly American, and full of character.

From Yogo Gulch to Rock Creek, Montana sapphires are rewriting the story of fine jewelry with their sustainability, origin, and rainbow of hues.

📜 1. History & Mining Origins of Montana Sapphires

Montana sapphires have been mined since the late 1800s, originally discovered by gold prospectors.

Key Mining Locations:

Yogo Gulch (central Montana): Known for consistent cornflower blue sapphires
Rock Creek (western Montana): Known for a spectrum of colors including teal, green, yellow, and lavender

These locations are famed for their environmentally responsible and small-scale mining practices.

🎨 2. A Natural Rainbow: Sapphire Colors Found in Montana

Montana sapphires are loved for their color diversity, especially compared to Sri Lankan and Madagascar gems.

Common Color Varieties:

Blue: Ranges from light sky blue to deep denim
Teal & Green: Earthy tones with Montana’s signature subtlety
Lavender & Violet: Rare, soft, romantic
Color Change: Some stones shift under different light sources

Because of their untreated nature, each stone reflects its authentic geological journey.

🔍 3. Montana vs. Ceylon vs. Madagascar Sapphires

Origin	Color Range	Treatment	Clarity	Sustainability
Montana	Blue, teal, lavender	Often untreated	Medium-High	High ✅
Ceylon (Sri Lanka)	Bright blues, pastels	Often heated	High	Moderate
Madagascar	Deep teals, vibrant colors	Usually heated	High	Varies

Montana sapphires offer a natural, earthy elegance, perfect for buyers who want more than sparkle—they want a story.

💍 Real Examples: Ethical Beauty in Every Piece

At NashGems, we carry handpicked sapphires ideal for:

Custom engagement rings
Heirloom pendants
Minimalist everyday jewelry

📩 Request a Custom Ring Design →

Written by rimzan nawasdeen

Hand holding custom parti sapphire engagement ring in sunlight

australian gemstone

🎨 Parti-Colored Australian Sapphires: Nature’s Most Artistic Gem

🌈 Introduction: Nature’s Brushstrokes in a Sapphire Every sapphire is special—but parti-colored Australian sapphires are in a class of their own. These one-of-a-kind bi-color sapphires display gree...

ceylon sapphire

💎 Montana Sapphire vs Ceylon Sapphire: Which Should You Choose?

✨ Introduction: Two Legendary Origins, One Hard Choice Sapphires are a timeless choice for fine jewelry—but not all sapphires are created equal. If you're choosing between a Montana sapphire and a ...