Yellowish grey, deep blue and violet are some of the shades in which this magnificent gemstone dazzle its onlookers. Sometimes puzzled with sapphires and other such stones, iolite is abundantly available and is comparatively economical without compromising on its quality. Also known as cordierite, this gemstone is found in Switzerland, Germany and many tropical countries like Sri Lanka and India etc. Iolite is derived from the Greek word “ios” meaning violet. It was also known as diochroite which means a “two colored” stone.

Iolite reads at 7-7.5 on the Moh’s scale which is used to measure the hardness of high quality gemstones. With diamond being the hardest gemstone having a hardness value of 10, Iolite is about mid range in this chart, this is an important factor as it can resist more wear and tear. However, iolite is a cutter’s nightmare and can be cut only in standard forms similar to emeralds and marquise. It is one of those rare stones which do not require any treatment to enhance their brilliance, unlike rubies and topaz.

Unlike any other gem, this stone has a remarkably unique application. It is used as a navigation tool. In ancient times Vikings could see the bearing of the sun on dreary days by looking through the iolite crystal; this was due to the property of pleochroism.