Iolite

Item Description

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 blue color one direction, a violet color another direction, and a yellowish color in the third direction. This gem has very slight pleochroism, but due to the smaller size, it's somewhat difficult to see. This gem is from the Tanzania, where some of the nicest Iolites are being mined these days. It has very slightl inclusions with an "Oval" cut.