Rocks, Minerals & Ores
Metamorphic Rocks and Minerals
Benitoite
Barium titanium silicateDallas Gem Mine, San Benito County, CA
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Metamorphic Rocks and Minerals
Benitoite is a rare barium titanium silicate mineral known for its striking sapphire-blue crystals and strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light. It was first discovered at the Dallas Gem Mine in San Benito County, California, which remains the only commercial source in the world. Recognized as the official state gem of California, benitoite typically forms in natrolite veins within serpentine-rich metamorphic rocks, making it both a mineralogical curiosity and a gemological treasure.