Nicely emplaced on a matrix of contrasting white natrolite, is a single, well formed, trigonal crystal of benitoite, measuring 1.2 cm in length. For an added bonus there are a few lustrous black neptunite crystals, to 7 mm in length, embedded in the natrolite. Startling aesthetics and balance make this a competition-level thumbnail, and it is an old piece from the world class thumbnail suite of Rukin Jelks (of Tucson), purchased by him in the 1980s or previously. Specimens like this are seldom seen, and rare amidst "more clunky" examples.