Updated as of June 2026
Benitoite
A rare blue gem found in gem quality only in California, where it is the official state gem. Famed for strong fire and a vivid sapphire blue color.
Price range$800 to $4,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)6.5
ColorsBlue, Violet blue
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
6.6/10
Benitoite pros and cons
Pros
- Good durability (Mohs 6.5) for most jewelry
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Rare and collectible
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 6.5, best in protected settings
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
Benitoite is ideal for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, and works in everyday rings with a protective setting.
Explore Benitoite
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestBenitoite jewelry
Benitoite ringsBenitoite engagement ringsBenitoite necklacesBenitoite pendantsBenitoite earringsBenitoite bracelets
Benitoite by cut
Round BenitoiteOval BenitoiteEmerald Cut BenitoiteCushion BenitoitePrincess BenitoitePear BenitoiteAll cuts
Benitoite by metal
Benitoite in yellow goldBenitoite in white goldBenitoite in rose goldBenitoite in platinumBenitoite in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 6.5) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Fairly soft and best for earrings or pendants. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
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Where to buy Benitoite: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Benitoite?
A rare blue gem found in gem quality only in California, where it is the official state gem. Famed for strong fire and a vivid sapphire blue color. It rates 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in blue, violet blue.
How much does Benitoite cost?
Benitoite typically runs about $800 to $4,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Benitoite price guide for detail.
Is Benitoite good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 6.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Benitoite?
Benitoite earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.6 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Benitoite?
Fairly soft and best for earrings or pendants. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.