The unusual cornflower-blue sapphires of Yogo Gulch near Lewistown are said to be the deepest blue of all sapphires in the world and are of highest gem quality. Yogo sapphires can be found in Montana's gem stores and rock shops. Groups who wish to mine their own sapphires may try their luck at one of the many sapphire mines located throughout the state. Until 1982, Butte's famed Berkeley Pit ranked third in open-pit copper mining in the United States. Copper products can be found in gift shops throughout Montana.
Items made from copper include bracelets, belt buckles, candle holders, cookware and dishes.
Several shops specialize in copper items, such as the Butte Copper Company, the West Yellowstone Copper Shop and the Montana Copper Shops in Missoula and Polson. During the summer and fall, wild chokecherries, buffalo berries, plums and huckleberries grow abundantly in Montana. Many Montanans collect these fruits and produce wonderful taste treats. The most popular are jams and preserves made by Eva Gates in Bigfork, jellies and syrups made by Kountry Kitchen in Miles City and chocolate covered huckleberries made by several companies in the state. These products can be purchased in delicatessens, grocery stores and gift shops throughout Montana.