Iolite is a magnificent blue gemstone jewelry known for its optical phenomena, pleochroism and dichroism, which allow it to change color when viewed from various angles. Yes! When viewed from one angle, the stone seems dark, sapphire-like blue, yet when viewed from another, it appears clear as water. Iolite crystals appear in a variety of colors, including colorless and grey, as well as pale blue, dark blue, and violet. Though the mineral is commonly referred to as iolite jewelry business, its real name is ‘Cordierite’ (named after French geologist Cordier). Because of its appearance, it is also known as “Water sapphire” or “Dichroite.” Iolite, with its blue and violet tones, carries the spirit of voyage, exploration and illumination, dreams and intuition, much like a cold and dark winter sky does.
This gemstone, known as the Vikings’ Compass, has the potential to move us both physically and spiritually. Fine iolite is commonly found in its natural state and is therefore rarely processed. The fact that it does not require any additional treatment beyond standard cutting and polishing is a selling factor for buyers, providing it an advantage over other gemstones. Here’s a shopping guide that will teach you everything you need to know about iolite and how to spot a genuine one.
What is iolite?
Iolite is a clear or translucent gemstone derived from the magnesium iron aluminum cyclosilicate mineral cordierite. They are typically employed in the form of short, prismatic, striated crystals. Iolite has a hardness range of 7-7.5, making it an appropriate jewelry stone; however, the occurrence of cleavage must be noted before any treatment is performed. Iolite jewelry is connected with the element water. It is occasionally mistakenly identified as tanzanite. Iolite, jewelry also known as the vision stone jewelry, is thought to activate the third eye, facilitating imagery and intuitive insight. A fashioned iolite often ranges in size from 1 to 10 carats. However, fine iolites above five carats are uncommon.
Where is iolite found?
Iolite (Cordierite) is a silicate mineral that is mostly found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Iolite’s hardness explains its occurrence. It is frequently found in alluvial deposits as tiny, translucent, and waterworn pebbles. Though India produces the majority of the world’s iolite, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania all mine large amounts. Other hotspots for discovering iolite include Australia (Northern Territory), Burma, Canada, Madagascar, Namibia, and the United States.
Similar and Related Variants of Iolite:
Though iolite is not closely connected to other gemstones, it does have a number of distinct types. Indialite is a polymorph of iolite that occurs at high temperatures and has a chemical structure similar to beryl. Iolite with 925 sterling silver also forms tight mineral relationships with spinel, sillimanite, garnet, hematite, and plagioclase feldspar. Some of the alteration products of iolite include talc, chlorite, and mica. Gemstones like kyanite, sapphire, and tanzanite are sometimes confused with Iolite due to their similar looks.
Cut: When purchasing iolite, the cut is a vital consideration. Iolites jewelry can be carved into cabochons or sculptures, however when the material is of low quality, they are commonly utilized as beads. A step cut is used to highlight the iolite’s color, while a shallow cut is used to lighten the tone. Iolite jewelry trichroism is an important trait to consider when making a cut. The fact that it has a clear cleft in one direction indicates that its hardness is merely fair. When the cut is appropriately placed on an iolite with long, parallel, tabular inclusions, these gemstones can show chatoyancy (cat’s eye effect) or even asterism (star effect).
Carat: The price of an iolite gemstone varies substantially according to its clarity, quality, and cut. The wholesale value of beautiful blue-violet stones weighing 1 to 5 carats is $60 to $80 per carat, and for stones weighing 5 to 10 carats, it is $100 to $150. Retail prices for these size ranges are $100 and $150 per carat, respectively.
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Iolite therapeutic Properties:
Although synthetic cordierite is available and is predominantly employed in ceramics and other industrial applications, iolite jewelry has no known treatments or additions, making it unique.
How do I take care of Iolite?
The strong pleochroism of an iolite jewelry makes it difficult to facet. However, if placed in the appropriate jewelry setting and treated with care, they will not be readily damaged. Though it can be worn in everyday rings due to its durability, its cleavage makes it prone to fracture. To avoid damage, other gemstones should not be worn alongside iolite. Furthermore, because iolite is susceptible to heat and temperature fluctuations, ultrasonic, boiling, and steam cleaning procedures should be avoided.
The recommended method for cleaning your iolite is to rinse it with warm water and mild dish soap. Bleaches, detergents, and other strong cleaning products are not suggested. Prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight, frequent temperature swings, and extreme weather should be avoided. When removing jewelry, avoid pulling on the stone because this might result in weakened prongs and the loss of the stone. It’s a good idea to put on your jewelry, especially iolite jewelry, after you’ve applied your makeup, hairspray, and perfume. Consider keeping your diamonds separate. Wrap your gems separately in a soft towel and store them in a clean jewelry box lined with soft fabric to prevent scratches and smudges.
Iolite Meaning:
Iolite is also referred to as the gemstone of vision or a “guidance” stone. It is a natural birthstone for those born around the winter solstice. Iolite jewelry is thought to be a potent stone jewelry for Arians and Pisceans. It is also regarded as the ideal gemstone for the 21st wedding anniversary.
Iolite Mythology:
It’s no surprise that iolite is known as the vision stone, despite the fact that it has no strong mythological associations. Centuries ago, Iolite’s unusual pleochroism was used to help people understand the angles of sunlight. It is also known as ‘the Viking stone’ because, according to Norse mythology, Vikings used thin bits of iolite to help them discover the sun on foggy days. Thus, the world’s first polarizing filter came into being. Legend has it that Vikings discovered the first iolite deposits in Norway and Greenland. Iolite jewelry is thought to improve one’s vision. It is also linked to the third eye chakra and is regarded as a stone of vision, enhancing creative expression.
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Iolite Applications:
Iolite is used in various forms of jewelry, including pendants, rings, and earrings.
Iolite can help people who are demotivated, disorganized, disoriented, or distracted regain their balance.
In difficult conditions, iolite strengthens the drive to accept responsibility while also providing self-assurance and perseverance. This unique property gives Iolite its reputation as a “guidance” stone.
Iolite is a good source of energy for eliminating debt and promoting responsible financial management.
This gemstone helps to resolve misunderstandings in relationships. Iolite encourages you to take responsibility for yourself and not rely on others to validate you.
Iolite is an attractive gemstone that is increasingly popular as an engagement ring stone.
Iolite Metaphysical Properties:
It’s not surprising that iolite is still renowned as the gemstone of clear eyesight, given its capacity to aid sailors navigate in the past.
Iolite provides clarity to individuals who are confused and inspires anyone who has had a difficult life to begin again.
It facilitates inner traveling and promotes inner serenity.
Iolite helps to resolve tension in relationships.
Iolite Healing Properties:
Health Benefits: It reduces the effects of alcohol while also promoting liver detoxification and regeneration. Iolite stimulates detoxification and heals degenerative liver diseases. It also significantly decreases the body’s fatty deposits. Iolite jewelry has a variety of healing effects, including regulating digestion, promoting hair and nail growth, strengthening the nerves, treating paralysis and numb limbs, and enduring pain.
Emotional Healing: Iolite investigates the deep inner routes of oneself. It promotes the ability to move forward in life. When confused, iolite assists in providing solutions to any problems. It has a calming influence on your mental state, stimulates positive thinking, instills optimism, and helps you make decisions about how to deal with any situation.
Where should you buy iolite gemstones?
925 Silver Shine offers high-quality iolite gemstones in black and blue. These stones are available in a variety of forms, including loose, cabochons, carvings, connectors, and even rosary chains and strands. They also provide a variety of forms to choose from, including the cube, heart, pear, tear drop, oval, and eight other enticing silver gemstone jewelry designs. Iolite is a beautiful and well-known gemstone that will complement any jewelry design.
