Few gemstones can boast myriad colours like iolite, one of the most uniquely pleochroic gemstones known. Pleochroism is the name given to the optical effect where a gemstone displays different colours along the different directions in which it is viewed. When viewed with the naked eye, iolite shows three different pleochroic colours, thus, it is said to be trichroic. An iolite cube cut to display all three pleochroic colours. As the legend goes, Vikings would carry plates of iolites on board their ships.
On cloudy or foggy days with excessive haze and low visibility, it was difficult to mark the exact position of the sun in the sky. In such instances, navigators would use their iolite plates as a polarizing filter to pinpoint the location of the sun and, using a sundial, determine the geographical north, thus steering the ship back to its correct course; this lead to another common name for iolite: the Viking Compass Stone. In India, one prime source of these beautiful gemstones are the gem-bearing lithologies of the southern states.
Of these, Tamil Nadu has multiple small pockets of gem quality iolites littered around veins found over its vast rolling plains and steep hills. The rocks of southern India converge through a huge network of shear zones and faults to form a lattice of highly metamorphosed rocks. These rocks guard a variety of different gemstone species. Iolites, rubies, alexandrites, sphenes, sunstones, rock crystals, zircons, aquamarines, and emeralds are just some of the many beautiful gem quality mineral specimens found nestled in these formations.
Iolites from Kiranur, Tamil Nadu. The Palghat-Cauvery Shear Zone is especially famous for its abundant gemstone mineralization. Iolites, however, may be found sporadically over this large area. Places like Lachmanapatti, Malapatty, Kiranur, Karur, etc. Obtaining these coveted specimens, however, is not an easy feat. For men, iolite is an excellent 'royal' gem, which is perfect for men's fashion and gemstone jewelry accessories, including cufflinks, iolite rings and tie-tacks.
Iolite is an affordable alternative for more expensive blue sapphire or violet-blue tanzanite. Since it is a lesser-known gemstone, most jewelry stores will not have iolite readily available and in stock, so in most cases, iolite will need to be sourced from online suppliers. Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight.
Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamond by weight in comparison. Iolite is considered to be fairly hard and durable, but it exhibits good cleavage which adds to its fragility. Extra care should be taken to prevent any hard knocks or blows. It is slightly harder than quartz, but softer than many popular jewelry gemstones i. It is best to refrain from wearing other types of gemstones together with iolite in order to prevent damage.
Iolite should not be cleaned with heat steamers or ultrasonic cleaners. To clean your iolite gems and jewelry, simply use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse well to remove any remaining soapy residue. Avoid extreme climates, temperature fluctuations and prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight. Always remove your gems and jewelry before engaging in any vigorous sports, exercise or household chores.
When removing jewelry, do not pull from the stone as this can lead to weakened prongs and eventually a lost stone. Always store gems separately, and if possible, wrap your gems individually using a soft cloth and place them inside a fabric-lined jewelry box for added protection.
Dimensions are given as; length x width x depth , except for round stones which are; diameter x depth. Select gems by size, not by weight! Gem varieties vary in density, so carat weight is not a good indication of size. Sign In. Change Language. Get Your Gemstone Today. Shop New Arrivals. Shop Sapphire. Shop Gemstone Lots. Calibrated Gemstones. Buy Gemstone Lots - By Piece. Shop Matched Pairs. Shop Cabochon Gems. Shop Drilled Gems, Briolettes and Beads. Shop Birthstones. Shop Gemstone Carvings.
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What is a Gemstone Certificate? A gemstone certificate can be a wonderful comparative tool. You have discovered the colorful world of gems; now it is time to decide on the perfect gemstone for you! The role of gemologist is crucial to the gem trade. Retrieved March 23, Vikings used Iolite's pleochroism as a tool to navigate by and as a polarizing filter to look at the sun.
Cordierite gem family of Iolite was named for the French geologist, Pierre Cordier Iolite is found in several Indian localities and has been mined there since classic history.
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