Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q126871365" class="extiw" title="d:Q126871365"><span title="photographer from the United States">Shannon Heinle</span></a></bdi> (CC0)
hexagonalcommonSilicates
Benitoite
BaTiSi3O9
This sample features vibrant blue benitoite crystals embedded in a white matrix of natrolite, showcasing its characteristic hexagonal (ditrigonal-dipyramidal) crystal form.
Benitoite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
6.5Crystal System
hexagonalLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
distinct on {10-11}Fracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
3.65Colors
blue, colorless, pinkTransparency
transparentType Locality
San Benito County, California, USAMineral Group
SilicatesUses
jewelry, collectorAssociated Minerals
natrolite, neptunite, joaquiniteRarity
commonGeological Context
Benitoite is an extremely rare mineral that forms in hydrothermally altered serpentinite, typically found in natrolite veins, often in association with neptunite and joaquinite.
