Benitoite, Neptunite
at-auction$ 50
- Locality
- Gem Mine, San Benito Co., California, USA
- Minerals
- Benitoite, Neptunite
- Dimensions
- 5.2 x 4 x 1.5 cm
- Size class
- Small Cabinet
- SID
- R653
Schist matrix covered by white Natrolite with crystals of blue Benitoite. Benitoite is the state gemstone of California and extremely rare. The best crystal is in the center and there are a number of crystals on the schist along the edges, as well as some small Neptunite crystals. This mine is now closed and no significant amounts are likely to ever be recovered here again. The Benitoite crystals on this specimen reach 5mm in size, with potentially more crystals hidden under the Natrolite.