AllMineralsRock
Iolite
Iolite is a gemstone composed of magnesium aluminum silicate. [1]
Iolite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Iolite:- Transparency: Iolite can be translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, iolite is orthorhombic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, iolite is vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Iolite streaks colorless.
- Hardness: Iolite's hardness ranges from 7 to 7.5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Iolite's specific gravity ranges from 2.53 to 2.78.
Iolite: Background and Summary
Iolite is a mineral that is also known as cordierite. It is a magnesium iron aluminum cyclosilicate that is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Iolite is typically blue to violet in color, but it can also be gray, yellow, green, or brown. It has a vitreous to dull luster and a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5.One way to identify iolite is through its pleochroism, which means that it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. Iolite has a strong pleochroism, which means that it can appear blue, yellow, and colorless when viewed from different angles. It also has a distinctive cleavage that is perpendicular to its long axis.
Iolite has several uses in the jewelry industry. It is a popular gemstone that is used in rings, necklaces, and earrings. Its unique color and pleochroism make it a popular choice for jewelry designers. Iolite is also used in the manufacturing of polarizing filters for cameras and LCD screens. Its pleochroism makes it an ideal material for creating filters that can block specific wavelengths of light.
Iolite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Iolite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent |
| Chemical Formula | Mg2Al4Si5O18 |
| Chemical Composition | magnesium aluminum silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.53, 2.78 |
| Hardness | 7, 7.5 |
| Streak | colorless |
| Crystallography | orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.522, 1.578 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: blue, colorless sometimes: gray, purple, violet |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Iolite: FAQ
Q: Can iolite be treated in any way?A: Iolite cannot be treated in any way to enhance its color or clarity.
Q: Where is iolite found?
A: Iolite is found in several locations around the world, including Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.
Q: Is iolite a rare gemstone?
A: Iolite is not considered a rare gemstone, but high-quality stones can be difficult to find.
Q: What is the meaning of iolite?
A: Iolite is said to be a stone of vision and intuition. It is believed to enhance creativity and spiritual awareness.
Sources
- "Iolite: The Gemstone with a Pleochroic Surprise." Geology.com. https://geology.com/gemstones/iolite/- "Iolite." Gemological Institute of America. https://www.gia.edu/iolite
- Iolite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cordierite
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