Iolite

Colour: Iolite has different colours in different directions due to its pleochroistic properties. It may look a violet blue from one side, clear as water from the other and a honey yellow from yet another. Iolite is usually a purplish blue when cut properly

Name derivation: Derived from the Greek “Ios”, which means “violet”

Symbolism: Said to bring good luck, spiritual and physical well-being

Gemstone family: Cordierite

Anniversary: 21st wedding anniversary (modern)

Hardness: Moh’s Scale 7.0-7.5 (robust structure)

Geography: The finest come from India, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Brazil

Famous Iolite facts: Leif Eriksson and the other legendary Viking explorers ventured far out into the Atlantic Ocean, away from any coastline that could help them determine position. They did so with a secret gem weapon: Iolite. The Viking mariners used thin pieces of iolite as the world's first polarizing filter. Looking through an Iolite lens, they could determine the exact position of the sun, and navigate safely to the new world and back

Cleaning procedure: Not an issue due to its hardness

Value factors: Intensity of colour; Brilliance and “life” of stone; Size of stone