Crystals
Iolite
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Product details
Iolite, also known as “water sapphire” or “Vikings’ Compass,” is a blue to violet gemstone that is valued for its unique color and optical properties. Here are some key points about iolite:
- Color and Pleochroism: Iolite is known for its strong pleochroism, which means it exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. In iolite’s case, it can appear blue or violet when viewed from one angle and almost colorless from another. This property makes it a popular choice for faceted gemstones, as cutters can align the stone to display the most appealing color.
- Geological Origin: Iolite is a silicate mineral belonging to the cordierite mineral group. It typically forms in metamorphic rocks and is often found in association with other minerals like quartz and feldspar.
- Vikings’ Compass: Iolite has earned the nickname “Vikings’ Compass” because of its ability to polarize light. Vikings are said to have used thin slices of iolite as a navigational aid, as they believed it could determine the direction of the sun on cloudy days.
- Locations: Iolite deposits are found in various parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, Brazil, and Tanzania.
