Iolite (Cordierite)

Item Description

Iolite is a well-known gem, and loved for it's attractive pleochroic property. The material is sometimes is compared to Tanzanite as they both show pleochroic 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 an "Oval Brilliant" cut. Interestingly, I found on the GIA website that Iolite may have been used by Vikings as navigating tool: "According to legend, iolite is called the Viking Compass Stone. It's said that thin slices of iolite served as glare-reducers and polarizing filters that helped ancient Viking navigators locate the sun on cloudy days". It's not just a pretty gem, but it might have served as a scientific aid for early sailors.