Iolite is a gem that’s long been confused with other gems, especially Sapphire and Tanzanite.

The mineral name for this gem is Cordierite. However, it is also known as ‘Water Sapphire’, frequently found in the same alluvial deposits as the much better-known Sapphires. 

The name comes from the Greek word ‘Ios” meaning violet, and the Vikings used Iolite lenses to shield their eyes from the sun’s rays, while navigating the ocean.

Iolite is trichroic, meaning you can see three distinct colors as you view the crystal from different directions. This means you can only cut it in one way to get a primarily blue colored gem, which is generally the most desirable.

Significant sources of Iolite include Tanzania, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and Brazil.

Iolite celebrates the 21st anniversary.

We have more shapes and sizes available in Iolite – please contact us if you don’t find what you are looking for in our online inventory.