RARE GEMSTONE: BENITOITE - 1.72 CT. ...

Description

RARE GEMSTONE: BENITOITE - 1.72 CT
Dallas Gem Mine (Benitoite Mine), San Benito Co., California, USA
Classic example of this ultra-rare gemstone - the unique source of the California state gem in San Benito County is effectively gone: it has been mined out. Once hastily identified as Sapphire because of its blue coloration, Benitoite is actually a rare barium titanium silicate with a unique crystal habit: hexagonal - dipyramidal. Because it has a high refractive index with excellent dispersion, well facetted gemstones have a bright "blue diamond" sparkle as seen in this gem. This stone has some color zoning from colorless to light sapphire blue but the excellent faceting has produced an overall even sapphire blue appearance when viewed table up. There are some very minor inclusions that have no particular effect on its appearance. Benitoites are ultra-rare in the 1-carat or larger size - this pear shaped gem is large at 1.72 carats and it measures 10.3 x 6.5 mm. It is in excellent condition.

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