In an unbelievable discovery, Australian miner Matt Betteridge of Betteridge Sapphires unearthed a 394-carat sapphire in the Reward area of Central Queensland. Betteridge was conducting a routine fossicking expedition when the incredible find left him in sheer disbelief.
While walking through the gem fields, Betteridge noticed a glimmering object on the road, which upon closer inspection turned out to be the massive sapphire. In footage shared from the scene, he can be heard exclaiming in amazement, “Look at that! Wow! It’s getting bigger!” The gem, uncut and in its natural form, has an estimated commercial value of approximately $1,000.
What makes this discovery even more fascinating is the decision not to cut the stone. Betteridge explained that the sapphire’s unique crystal structure and natural beauty make it more valuable in its original form. This decision follows a similar approach taken by the couple, who have become well-known for their remarkable finds, frequently sharing videos of their discoveries with followers on social media.
Earlier this year, Betteridge’s seven-year-old son, Riley, found a 14.5-carat sapphire worth up to $10,000 just 200 meters from their home in Rubyvale. The video of his find went viral on TikTok, capturing the attention of millions.
Could this 394-carat sapphire be the largest of its kind? With its sheer size and uncut state, this discovery is definitely one for the history books.