Iolite is a gemstone of striking beauty, sometimes referred to as the “water sapphire” due to its rich blue color that can resemble the deep hues of a sapphire. Its the gem-quality variety of the mineral Cordierite, a magnesium iron aluminum silicate. Cordierite is a mineral found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Iolite was named after the Greek word “Ios” meaning violet. Iolite isn't commonly treated, making it an attractive choice for natural gemstone collectors. Iolite is pleochroic, meaning when you turn it, you’ll see three distinct colors in three directions. This factor makes it hard to cut for jewelry, making it uncommon to find jewelry.

Iolite is known as the “Viking Compass Stone”. According to legend, thin slices of Iolite were used as glare-reducers and polarizing filters to help ancient Viking navigators locate the sun on cloudy days. This assisted the Vikings at sea to determine their own location. Iolite has been used in jewelry for centuries. It was particularly popular during the Art Deco period in the early 20th century, when its unique color and pleochroic properties made it a fashionable choice for cutting-edge designs.

Iolite is found in various regions across the globe, with notable deposits located in Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, Madagascar, and Tanzania. The primary source of gem-quality Iolite, is found in India, where it has been mined for centuries. Other deposits of Iolite are found in Canada, Zimbabwe, and the United States. Iolite forms in metamorphic rocks, particularly in schist and gneiss. These rocks are subjected to high heat and pressure over long periods of time, which causes the mineral components to crystallize and form the gem-quality Iolite we see today. The process of metamorphism, along with the presence of iron, aluminum, and other elements, gives Iolite its characteristic deep blue to violet-blue color. Iolite forms as grains or crystals within the metamorphic rocks, over time, these crystals are transported by weathering and erosion, sometimes ending up in alluvial deposits. The resulting stones are then cut and polished into cabochons or faceted gems for use in fine jewelry.

Iolite helps you open your mind to visions and guidance from spirit guides, angels and the Universe. I love to recommend Iolite to anyone who is trying to discover their path or seeking guidance for a decision. Iolite has a gentle energy that helps relax the mind to receive wisdom. It helps you see the bigger picture and gain perspective on challenges in your life, offering a clear and aligned path forward. Iolite promotes mental clarity, helping to clear mental fog, confusion, or self-doubt. It empowers you to trust your instincts and make decisions with confidence, especially when faced with uncertainty. This enchanting gem's ability to align your mind with your soul’s purpose allows for a clearer understanding of your true path and helps you connect with your authentic self on a deeper level.

Iolite is a powerful gem for those desiring to develop or enhance their intuitive abilities. It stimulates the mind’s higher faculties, allowing for better communication with your Higher Self and the spiritual realms. Iolite can also support those who seek to strengthen their abilities to receive messages from the divine, whether through dreams, meditation, or intuitive downloads. It creates a strong energetic bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind, unlocking the channels of intuitive wisdom and spiritual insight. Iolite acts as a spiritual compass, guiding you toward truth, light, and understanding. It creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere, which makes it easier to enter a deep meditative state. The stone’s vibrational frequency creates a strong connection with the higher realms and provides a sense of peace and stillness during your meditation sessions.

Hardness: 7-7.5

Color: Blue, violet

Care: Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (or extreme heat), direct sunlight and contact with abrasive surfaces or chemicals. Remove before contact sports, weight lifting or activities where it may come into contact with force. As always, it should be stored away from minerals higher on the MOHs scale.

Feng Shui Placement: Knowledge and personal growth. Iolite makes a great addition to a office or sacred space.