Which gemstone is known as "the blue diamond of the American West"?

Benitoite is referred to as "the blue diamond of the American West" due to its unique and striking deep blue color, which closely resembles that of a diamond. Discovered in California in the 1900s, benitoite is noteworthy for its rarity and the fact that it is found primarily in the United States. It is a relatively hard gemstone, rated at 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, and exhibits a high level of brilliance and dispersion similar to diamond, contributing to its nickname.

This designation highlights both its aesthetic qualities and its geographical significance, as it is one of the few gemstones found in the United States that reflects both beauty and rarity. Understanding this context can deepen appreciation for benitoite, distinguishing it from other blue gemstones, such as sapphire and turquoise, which are more widely known and available.