Benitoite, a barium titanium silicate, is an exceptionally rare gem material. Gem quality crystals have been found in only one location, San Benito County in California. Benitoite is slightly softer than quartz (Mohs' hardness 6-6.5 vs. 7), but it has a higher refractive index and much greater dispersion. The color of benitoite ranges from colorless to a stunning sapphire blue. It shows an intense blue fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Faceted benitoite gemstones larger than one carat in size are rare. The above gemstone is internally flawless at 10X magnification (The GIA's highest grade for any colored stone is VVS) and very well cut. Benitoite is sufficiently hard to be set in pendants, pins, or special occasion rings. The above gemstone would make a fine addition to any gemstone collection, either loose in a cabinet or set in a piece of custom designed jewelery.

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