Iolite, is one of the more beautiful violet-blue colored stones out there. It is a gemstone version of mineral cordierite. The stone has a vibrant violet-blue color and is often a preferred (and less expensive) alternative to Sapphire and Tanzanite. Sometimes called water sapphires ( a mis-nomer because these stones are not sapphires), the stone is known for its dominant pleochroism, which means that it can show multiple tones and shades depending on how the light hits it and what angle it is held. Moreover, Iolites are found in many regions of the world, which make the stone abundant on the earth. This makes them easier on the pocket but equally as beautiful as other jewelry made with some of the more ‘precious’ gems. They are currently one of the most popular gemstones in the market – check out the selection below or read on to learn everything you wanted to know about Iolite Jewelry.
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The iolite stone has a beautiful history behind it. By some accounts, It was initially used by Viking navigators as a mineral compass stone, essentially to help them locate the sun on very cloudy days…so what better way to represent the spirit, adventure, journey, and exploration than with iolite jewelry!
Iolite jewelry is often given as a gift on the 21st Wedding anniversary and in Eastern societies as a September birthstone gift. It has a blue to violet glow, which can shift from pale yellow (light golden) to colorless. If you are looking for some information before making a purchase, popular 4- C guide, i.e., cut, color, clarity, and carats (of the stone) is a good way to start learning about the value and quality of Iolite Jewelry.
The best Cut for Iolite Jewelry
When it comes to gemstones, the cut is really important, especially in Iolites. It decides on which colors reflect the most when you wear it. Make sure that the cut is in a way that it reflects the royal blue and violet tones instead of the pale yellow or clear ones. To check the quality of the cut, angle the stone to a different angel of light and watch for the change! If the cut is not right, the stone can appear brownish. Also, no matter how you hold the stone, the cut should show off its vibrancy. That said, You can find iolites in many traditional cuts, mostly squares, oval, cushion, and round . These tend to give it the best pleochroism effect since its multi-faceted ridges reflect light in a unique way. The stone has immense depth and richness to it, and you can assess that in different shapes, and select one according to your liking.
The best Color for Iolite jewelry
The color of your Iolite matters quite a bit since it’s a gemstone primarily known for its violet blue color. You can actually find the stone is many shades of blue. The more saturated and deeper blue the stone is, the more the value goes up. If you are someone who prefers a darker blue, or a royal lighter blue, the stone has natural color variation. Many people also compare it to sapphires due to its vivid color. Many stones have violet to a purple hue that gives that grandeur. Some stones also reflect a grey to gold hue when placed under certain lighting and angles – this is driven by the optical properties of the stone, which makes it truly a joy to own.
Clarity of iolite jewelry
If you are experienced with buying gemstones, you would also know that clarity is an important component. Especially for Iolites, clarity significantly improves their value, and larger sized (over 6 carats) Iolites that without inclusions are both rare and expensive. Iolites naturally have inclusions in them, which are long tubular looking, that run right through the stone. These inclusions are not clear and can contain metal, which can potentially be brown or reddish in color. These stones are referred to as ‘bloodshot.’ Inclusions have a refractive effect when they are cut at the right point. If you are getting a stone directly from a source, make sure you always go to a jeweler who has an expert cutter on board. A good cut can make what is usually considered a flaw in a gemstone turn into something mesmerizing and unique.
Are iolite stones rare?
Gemstones are measured in carats – whilst Iolite stones are generally widely available, these are usually between 1 to 5 carats. However, stones upwards of 8 carats, especially ones with no inclusions are pretty rare and can be expensive. For example a mid range stone between 1 to 5 carats with an average cost of $50 per carat. Larger stones range between 5 to 10 Carats and are more expensive, costing around $150 per carat. Given these sizes, Iolites often are ideal for bracelets and pendants.
What Metals are best for Iolite jewelry?
Iolite makes beautiful Jewelry! People often use it to make all kinds of grand rings, elegant pendants, and chic bracelets. Iolite Jewelry is actually very durable. People can choose to wear it every day. Note, whilst iolite stones have a hardness between 7.0 to 7.5 Mohs scale of hardness, which makes it a long-lasting stone – if treated correctly (since it is brittle and can cleave easily).
People experiment with many different colored metals when it comes to Iolite. Since the stone is deep blue, it complements all kinds of metals. You can go for sterling silver or platinum and can even experiment with white gold or rose to yellow gold. Your statement jewelry piece will be unlike any other since the stone speaks for itself. That said, many people recommend silver bases since it makes the blue and violet hues pop a lot more. It has a much more elegant and casual touch to it, which is why people can wear blue and silver jewelry frequently.
Yellow can give an aged and vintage look if you are looking for one. Many people who are into classic Jewelry design pair iolites with yellow gold or rose gold. It also adds a touch of luxury, poise and can be used for specific functions and gatherings. However, gold can also reflect the yellow and colorless refraction from the stone a lot more. So always make sure an experienced jeweler is crafting the stone in a way that does it justice.
There are other options if you are on a budget. Since the stone itself is very affordable, it is also why jewelers often pair it with cheaper metals like polished brass or copper. This tends to keep the price of Iolite jewelry piece relatively low, even if the metal might not complement the stone entirely.
How to Take Care Of Iolite Jewelry?
If you already own iolite jewelry and looking to care for it from the beginning, there are some tips and tricks that can help you elongate its lifespan and care for it.
Firstly, always try to store your jewelry in a dry, closed box from the very beginning. You can also wrap it up in the original box or packaging. Air and moisture can often take a toll on your jewelry pieces – though this is often driven by the type of metal selected. When wearing the stone, whilst the Iolite stone is pretty high up the Moh’s scale of mineral hardness, it can be brittle – so take care to ensure it doesn’t get knocked about.
However, if you iolite stone Jewelry does show wear, they are also relatively easier to clean. You can clean it up with warm soapy water. Just make sure the water is not too hot, as iolite jewelry does not take abrupt temperature changes too well.
Iolite Jewelry Fashion Trends
Iolite stones are being used in more and more jewelry pieces. They make great geode-themed Jewellery or simply look brilliant on a pair of earrings. The bluestone compliments silver bases and can also make an everyday wear bracelet. The stone is gorgeous yet simple, which makes it a lot easier for day to day wear. When paired with yellow or rose gold is can give an elegant finish that helps dress up the stone for grander events….all i all a great piece to own!