Iolite

Iolite

SCIENCE / MINERALOGY
Iolite is the gem variety of cordierite, a magnesium-iron aluminum silicate with the formula commonly written (Mg,Fe)₂Al₄Si₅O₁₈. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and is strongly pleochroic, often appearing violet-blue, pale blue, gray, or yellowish when viewed from different directions.

GEOLOGY & FORMATION
Cordierite forms mainly in magnesium- and aluminum-rich metamorphic rocks such as gneisses and hornfels and can also occur in granitic rocks and pegmatites. Gem-quality iolite is mined in India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Tanzania, Brazil, and other metamorphic terrains.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Iolite is traditionally associated with inner vision, independence, direction, self-discipline, and navigating uncertainty. Its strong pleochroism makes it a natural symbol of perspective: the same material can appear very different depending on how it is viewed.

KEY PROPERTIES
Inner vision • Direction • Independence • Discipline • Perspective • Intuition • Confidence

CHAKRA: Third Eye • Throat
ELEMENT: Air
ZODIAC: Libra • Sagittarius
MOHS HARDNESS: 7–7.5

ACCURACY / TRADE-NAME NOTE
Gem variety of cordierite.