Benitoite Gemstones
&
Rings
Benitoite is the perfect gemstone for those looking for a unique, stunning and rare gem. As the state gem of California, this gemstone is prized for its deep, dark, blue color and its ability to disperse light to create flash and fire qualities which are similar to a diamond (this stone is sometimes confused with a sapphire, but it has a higher degree of flash and fire than a sapphire). One of the most challenging aspects to creating a fine ring featuring this stone is the rarity of the gem. As most pieces discovered are very small, there are few gemstones of this size that are one carat or larger; many rings feature multiple clusters of the bright blue gem instead of one large stone. Properties: Durability = Very Good
Hardness = 6.0 – 6.5
Refractive Index = 1.76 – 1.80
Specific Gravity = 3.60 – 3.68 Enhancements: At this time natural benitoite gemstones are not enhanced or treated. Special Care: With a hardness rating of 6.0 – 6.5, this gemstone does need some special care. It should only be cleaned with a soft cloth that is free of dust and fine debris; cleaning methods using heat, ultrasonic machines, and chemicals should be avoided. In time, the stone may need a professional cleaning and polish to restore its natural luster. Care should be taken to avoid scratches. This gemstone is currently mined in California, Arkansas, and Japan, although most gem quality stones are only found in California. Price Guide: Current prices are on average $3,000 per carat. Smaller carat sizes come out to an average of $700 per carat; the cost per carat rises dramatically according to its size since one carat or above gemstones are rare. Prized benitoite gemstones have the characteristic deep dark blue associated with this gem, in addition to depth, fire, and brilliance. Cut is also important to the overall value of the gemstones, as is the absence of any inclusions or blemishes. Meaning: This gemstone was named for the “Benito” area in California where it was first discovered. The term “Benito” means blessed, and as a result those who are lucky enough to own a fine specimen of this gemstone should considered themselves fortunate and blessed. Shopping Tips: Synthetic gemstones of this kind have been grown in laboratory settings, but only in very minute quantities. On today’s market, no synthetic exists but buyers still need to beware (while not common, some disreputable sellers try to market colored cut glass as authentic gemstones). To ensure that you are purchasing an authentic gemstone, pay attention to price, seller reputation, and a light fluorescence test: - This gemstone is priced higher than many other types of gemstones due to its rarity. If anyone tries to sell you a 'Benito' gem for a too-good-to-be-true price it probably is not the real thing.
- Real benitoite will always display fluorescence under a UV light; many gem hunters use this characteristic to find Benito gems on the ground in areas where the gems have been discovered.
- Always purchase your gem through a retailer who offers a refund policy - a jeweler in your area can test the gem for fluorescence, or if you have a UV light (or black light) at home you can perform this test yourself.
- Always research the seller or retailer - use online resources to check for reputation, comments or reviews and make sure the seller/retailer has a verifiable address and contact number.
This unique gemstone is not readily available already set in a gemstone ring, if you would like a benitoite engagement ring or wedding ring you will probably need to purchase the stone rough - or for fun, try finding benitoite with your partner on one of the gemstone vacation tours offered in California - and have the stone cut. If you have a rough benitoite gem that needs to be cut and fit into a ring, make sure that you only take the gem to a jeweler who has experience working with this gem.
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How to Sell Benitoite Stones?
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I live in Santa Clara county, I have accumulated a rather large collection of huge specimens & stones, and I am looking to sell them off. How do you recommend ...
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