Benitoite

Item Description

Benitoite is a highly sought after species, both in crystallized examples and gemstones. It's popularity is due to its vivid color and the fact that it was only found at one locality in any significance. The great Benitoite mine is now completely defunct and for all intents and purposes, and will never produce these stones again. Benitoite is actually the state gem of California, and the price of fine gems has been on the rise since the demand is still quite high. Gem dealers in the United States have told us that Benitoite is the most difficult gem for them to keep in stock, everything sells immediately, and very little is available on the market for purchase. This stone has a medium blue color with a slight silvery overtone and a "Trillion Cabochon" cut. It's slightly included, and although it weighs 0.35 carats, that's not really a small size for the material, as many of them are less than 1/4 carat. A good example of this highly in-demand gem in today's market.
From the collection of George Elling, a prominent East Coast collector.