Benitoite (1 inch crystal) on Natrolite

Dallas Gem Mine, San Benito Co., California
Small Cabinet, 8.6 x 7.5 x 4.3 cm
Start Time: 07/01/2010 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 07/08/2010 6:30:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

A striking and unusual specimen highlighted by a large, 2.4 cm-tall benitoite crystal. This sharp trigonal crystal is strange in appearance, quite different from the normal thick crystals of darker blue or gray-blue. It is flattenned and more isosceles than equilateral in apparent shape of a triangle. Even the color here is unusual, being indigo-blue on the edges and grading to a zoned white-bluish mix in the center. Apparently, this is an old habit, as I had not seen the like from any of the recent production when the pit was (mostly) mined out some years ago; and benitoite was briefly more abundant on the market. This showy and excellent piece displays well without aid. It is unusual, imposing, and highly significant for this recently defunct locale. Valued $1500

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