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ST945 - Benitoite with Neptunite $ 18000 SOLD Gem Mine, San Benito Co., California, USA small cabinet - 9 x 6.5 x 2.2 cm Stunning and important Benitoite/Neptunite specimen from the Gem Mine in California. This specimen is composed of a flat schist matrix partially covered by white Natrolite hosting two large Benitoite, Neptunite, and a single Joaquinite crystal. The largest Benitoite is 3cm wide (and the second crystal is not much smaller). The truely great Gem Mine specimens are composed of Benitoite, Neptunite, and Joaquinite on white Natrolite - this specimen checks all the boxes. This visually appealling specimen was in the personal collection of the late California mineral dealer Al McGuinness. Al was an active dealer in California during the heyday of Benitoite mining and had the opportunity to select the best. The fact that he kept this particular specimen speaks to it's exceptional quality and visual appeal. ©2010-2018 Marin Mineral |