Iolite (Cordierite)

Item Description

Iolite sometimes is compared to Tanzanite as they both show pleochroism with blue and purple color change depending upon the angle in which its viewed. Like Tanzanite, Iolite is the varietal name for an actual mineral species, in this case Cordierite. 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. This particular gem is from the Tanzanian gem gravels, where some of the nicest Iolites are being mined these days. The stone is very very slightly included, and shows decent pleochroism. It has a "Trillion Brilliant" cut.