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Benitoite
The mineral is named after San Benito County, where it was first found and described by George Louderback in 1907.
Because of its color, benitoite was initially thought to be a variety of sapphire. This mistake was discovered after a chemical analysis of benitoite conducted with the use of X-rays.
Benitoite crystals on white natrolite
Benitoite crystals under UV light
Basic properties
| Composition | BaTiSi3O9 |
| Class | Silicates (cyclosilicates) |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal |
| Mohs' hardness | 6-6,5 |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Cleavage | Poor |
| Lustre | Glassy |
| Streak | White |
| Localities | USA, Japan, Australia, Belgium |
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