Iolite

Item Description

Iolite is the gem grade variety of Cordierite. The stones are pleochroic and feature a beautiful combination of blue/purple and golden/yellow hues. These gems are well-known around the world, but there are truly only a few places that produce a good amount of gem quality material. Years ago I was told that before Tanzanite was on the market, Iolite was one arguably one of the most well-known pleochroic gems out there. Iolite translated from Greek literally means "violet stone". These gems are sometimes known as "water Sapphire" in various corners of the gem world, but it is truly gem grade Cordierite. Iolite is strongly pleochroic and shows a strong blue color one direction, a violet color another direction, and a yellowish color in the third direction. This particular gem is from Tanzania, and has a "Round Brilliant" cut. It's fairly small, so it doesn't show much pleochroism when rotated on its various axes, but you can see a SLIGHT amount.