Iolite
Iolite
Iolite is the gem-quality blue or blue-violet variety of cordierite. While iolite enjoyed popularity in jewelry in 18th-century Europe, this naturally beautiful gemstone is relatively new to today's jewelry market, and is regaining popularity with the public. Because of its varying levels of hardness and strong pleochroism, iolite is one of the most difficult stones for lapidaries to fashion. It must be cut in certain directions to take advantage of the best color, which can be tough when the shape of the rough doesn't lend itself to cutting in that same direction.
General Information
LWUV: Inert
Iolite Colors
-
Blue -
Brown -
Colorless -
Purple
Iolite Spectra
We acknowledge the significant scientific contributions of John S Harris, FGA to the study of gemstone spectra and with deep appreciation to him, acknowledges the use of his images and related notes about gemstones and their spectra in the educational materials on this website.
Alternate Names
Cordierite, Dichroite, Bloodshot Iolite
Countries of Origin
Tanzania, United Republic Of; Myanmar; Russian Federation; Sri Lanka; United States of America; Madagascar; Kenya; India; Canada; Unknown; Norway; China; Finland; Brazil; Zimbabwe
Care
Normal Care
Optical Phenomena
Bloodshot Iolite
Bloodshot iolite is a variety of corderite found in Sri Lanka. Bloodshot iolite is a aventurescent gemstone and it gets its name from the parallel inclusions of hematite platelets that give it a reddish appearance.
