Hardness: 7-7.5 Mohs

Enhancement Code: Natural

Quality Information:

AA: Medium light to dark grayish purple, grape colour; eye clean; good cut

Care: Rated “fair” for everyday wear with care. Avoid exposure to heat, contact with chemicals, and protect from scratches and harsh blows. To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water

Major Sources: Brazil, India, Madagascar, Namibia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania

Derived from the Greek word for “violet,” the soothing colour of this gem gives it its name. An interesting property of iolite is what is known as “pleochroism,” that is, its colour changes with the direction of the light that illuminates it. Iolite can appear violet blue, clear or even golden yellow, depending on the source of light. Because of this property, the Vikings used Iolite on their voyages to determine the direction of the sun in dense fog, overcast conditions and even when the sun was below the horizon, giving it the name Vikings’ Compass.

Often given to celebrate the 21st anniversary, iolite is mined in many locations. Recent explorations of deposits in Wyoming revealed a specimen of more than 24,000 carats.