IOLITE

Iolite is often mistaken for Sapphire, and for this reason has been called ‘Water Sapphire’ in the past. Although it had been worn and admired for many centuries, it was only officially named in 1812 by the French geologist P.L.A Cordier (1777 – 1861).

When well cut, Iolite can display a purplish, violet blue and has a tender softness in colour. It can be very similar in colour to that of Tanzanite.