IOLITE

Overview: The name Iolite comes from the Greek "ios", which means violet. Iolite is usually purplish blue when cut properly, with a softness to the color that can be quite attractive. Iolite is very similar to Blue Sapphire when it is cut, hence its nickname "Water Sapphire". The stone has a rich violet-blue tinge when viewed from some angles, yet a much paler, almost grey colour when viewed from others.

Usage::Iolite provides grounding and centering, while enhancing creativity, stimulates visions and strengthens shamanic healing rituals. Iolite helps one to stay in the moment and bring harmony to the self within, which is really helpful in not getting distracted when you are trying to meditate. Iolite enhances intuition and is a stone that brings vision and prophecy. Iolite offers physical protection from disease, establishing a constitution that defies physical disorder.

Legend: Iolite was known as the Vikings' compass because of its ability to help determine the direction of the sun on overcast days.When the legendary Viking mariners sailed the ocean, they 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.

Occurrence: Iolite is found in Sri Lanka, India and Madagascar, and was long ago mined in Norway and Finland.