Collection: Pinctore About Iolite Iolite History and Lore According to legend, iolite is called the Viking Compass Stone. It’s said that thin slices of iolite served as glare-reducers and polarizing filters that helped ancient Viking navigators locate the sun on cloudy days. The name iolite comes from the Greek word ios, meaning “violet.” Some believe that the gem aids sleep and helps to unlock creativity. Iolite is often cited as the twenty-first wedding anniversary gemstone. Iolite Quality Factors Color Iolite possesses two distinctive features—a beautiful, violetish blue through slightly violetish blue hue derived from iron and a striking, eye-visible pleochroism. Bluish iolites display colorless to yellow, blue-gray, and dark violet pleochroic colors. Clarity Iolite is commonly transparent, with relatively few inclusions. It can be found in all shapes and has even been carved to beautiful effect. When the platelets are brownish or reddish in color, the gem might be marketed as “bloodshot” iolite. Cut Because it is commonly transparent with relatively few inclusions, iolite is most often faceted. However, iolites can be cut into cabochons or carvings as well. When the cut is oriented properly, these stones yield cat’s-eye gems. Carat Weight The size range for a fashioned iolite is anywhere from 1 to 10 carats, but fine iolites over five carats are rare. Read more
