Benitoite, The California State Gem

[MrLee]

So proud to own this beauty.



Was purchased from Trinity Minerals 1 year ago for a very, very good price. 2 Benitoite crystals with termination capped by a neptunite crystal.

FYI these are also found in Japan in the city of Itoigawa on the west coast. The city is famous for it's jade beaches and boulders, but the real gem is found just outside the city in the mountains. I'll post pictures of that material when I find them on my other device.

 

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[Cariboo5]

I would too,........it's a beauty for sure..

 

[MrLee]

Ok, found the Japan picture.

This was taken at the Fossa Magna museum there in Itoigawa. It's really a fantastic museum. They have a very impressive collection of mineral specimens from around the world as well as jade specimens, jade boulders and more. Absolutely a must visit for any rock hounds visiting Japan. I'm currently doing a write up on our site about my trip there.
The benitoite comes from the Hashidate gold mine area #8, left side of the below image. The jade is everywhere.

 

[IAMZIM]

Wow! That's a nice piece!

 

[Eu_citzen]

Nice! I have a 2cts rough piece that's gemmy somewhere. One day, I'll facet it.

 

[CHUDs]

Are those specimens from San Benito county? I believe that gem geometry is only found in that area.

 

[ice9]

Are those specimens from San Benito county? I believe that gem geometry is only found in that area.

Yes, benitoite of significance is only found in Cali. That piece looks like a nice cutter, it makes a beautiful stone!