Benitoite

Benitoite was first discovered in 1907, and upon its initial discovery was thought to be Sapphire. The crystal structure of Benitoite is unique, and is the only significant mineral in its crystal class. It crystallizes in a rare hexagonal sub-class called ditrigonal-dipyramidal.

Most Benitoite crystals were originally deeply embedded in thick Natrolite; specimens are prepared for collectors by dissolving the surrounding Natrolite in acid to expose the Benitoite crystals. The blue Benitoite on a white Natrolite matrix and usual association with black Neptunite makes a very aesthetic mineral specimen.

Benitoite is named after its locality in San Benito Co. in California, where this mineral was first found in a remote area far from civilization. This region is the only source of Benitoite, aside from some very sporadic and extremely limited occurrences worldwide.

For additional information, see the gemstone section on Benitoite.

In well-formed, tabular crystals that are triangular in shape, often with slightly flattened points or sub-triangular points. Crystals may be in isolated crystals or interconnected. Twinning as stubby hexagonal prisms are also known, and a rare oddity is a perfectly aligned penetration twin shaped as a star of David.
StudyGeology

Color, crystal habits, locality, and mineral associations Mineralspecimens

Benitoite is cherished by collectors as a rare and valuable mineral. It is also cut as as an exquisite rare gemstone.
Mineralspecimens

The crystal habits, color, and locality are able to distinguish Benitoite from all other minerals.
Mineralspecimens