Iolite jewelry has become quite popular due to its beautiful
violet blue color and the dichroic properties that allow it to exhibit two or
more colors according to the direction in which it is viewed. The name iolite
comes from Greek ios (violet) and lithos (stone). Iolite jewelry may also be
referred to as water sapphire or cordierite.
Because of its similarity to sapphire, iolite jewelry may be
confused when viewed in only one direction. However, iolite is not a rare
material and is therefore affordable. Sources for gemstones to be used in
iolite jewelry may include Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar and Burma.
Moh's scale of hardness classifies iolite as 7-7.5. Being
relatively durable, your iolite jewelry may be worn frequently and cleaned
with gem cleaner to maintain its brilliance.
