Large Benitoite Crystal with Djuleite and Joaquinite
Benitoite Gem Mine
San Benito County, California
4.4 cm x 4.1 cm x 2.6 cm
Here is a wonderful specimen of benitoite with djuleite and joaquinite.
This specimen comes from the only place in the world, these rare minerals can be found together.
The single large benitoite crystal is almost 3 cm. A size rarely seen for the species.
The crystal is partially exposed from the snowy white natrolite.
If you look carefully you will see the very left side tip of the crystal,
coming out the back side of the specimen.
The two exposed tips of the crystal are fractured,
but are held in securely by the remaining natrolite and matrix.
At the base of the benitoite is an orangy-brown crystal of joaquinite,
along with a few others around the specimen.
Right behind the benitoite are 3 exposed crystals of Djuleite.
Overall, quite a special specimen from this mine.
