An Australian couple has unearthed a 183-carat sapphire worth an estimated $3,000 after months of digging in Queensland’s Sapphire Gemfields.
Michael and Cherië, who have been fossicking for more than 20 years, discovered the gemstone in a 2.5-metre-deep hole on a rural mining claim near Rubyvale, a region known for its precious stones. The moment was captured on video as Michael pulled the stone from the dirt, exclaiming “holy dooley” in excitement.
The gem, described as a parti sapphire due to its natural mix of colours—yellow, blue, and possibly green—is not considered perfect but still holds significant value. Cherië noted the stone will be kept for now, but they plan to cut it into smaller pieces to sell through their shop, Sapphire Gem Cuts.
The couple lives off-grid on multiple mining claims with their five children and have spent decades searching for high-value stones. “You never know… you see a glint and you think ‘oh, is it one?’” said Cherië in an interview.
This isn’t their first major find. Last year, Michael unearthed a 123-carat sapphire valued at up to $12,300. However, many larger stones they find—sometimes up to 500 carats—lack gem quality and are not suitable for sale.
Despite the challenges, the couple remains hopeful of one day finding what they call a “retirement stone.”
Interest in gem fossicking in the area has grown in recent years, especially since the Covid pandemic, with more families exploring the gemfields.
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