Benitoite is a rare blue silicate mineral, found in hydrothermally altered serpentinite. Benitoite fluoresces under short wave ultraviolet light, appearing light blue in color. Dr. Louderback, who conducted the discovery examination of this mineral, named it Benitoite, “as it occurs near the head waters of the San Benito River in San Benito County,” California
Benitoite's main uses are as collector's specimens, especially in specimens which show off this mineral's unique crystals, or specimens in which benitoite occurs with its commonly associated minerals. Benitoite's hardness also makes it suitable for use as a gemstone, though the general lack of usable material has limited this use.
Benitoite is the official state gem of California
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