Our Gems
Iolite
History and Folklore.png)
The name comes from the Greek word los meaning "violet". The old Greek word diochrite has also been used for iolite, meaning "two-colored rock". Its ability to determine the direction of the sun (even on overcast days) has given it the name of "water sapphire" and "Vikings Compass".
Facts and Information
It is mainly found in gravel beds in Sri Lanka. Iolite has strong pleochroism, meaning when it is viewed from different directions, it displays different colors
Gemstone Identification and Characteristics
- R.I.: 1.542 - 1.551 (+.045, -.011)
- Hardness: 7 - 7.5
- S.G.: 2.61 (+.05, -.05)
Cleaning Methods
- Safe in warm,soapy water
- Risky in ultrasonic
- Risky in steamer
Major Sources
- Sri Lanka
- Brazil
- Tanzania
- India
