Commercial quantities of gem-quality benitoite are found at only one location in the world, the Benitoite Gem mine, in San Benito County, California. This historic locality continues to produce fine-quality gemstones and mineral specimens, and an extension of the deposit was found in the spring of 1997. The feature article in this issue looks at the history of the Benitoite Gem mine, the geology of the New Idria district and current mining there, and the gemological properties of this distinctive material. The benitoite and diamond necklace illustrated here is shown with the largest faceted benitoite to date, a 15.42 carat stone from the Benitoite Gem mine. An artistic rendering, by GIA designer Lainie Mann, features this stone mounted in a pendant. Jewelry and gemstones from the collection of Michael M. Scott. Photo © Harold & Erica Van Pelt—Photographers, Los Angeles, CA.