Celtic Iolite silver ring

Solid sterling silver 925 ring featuring a round Iolite gemstone.

• round Iolite 6mm

• UK ring size: Q 1/2/US ring size: 8.5

Generally Violet Blue in colour, iolite is sometimes called Dichroite alluding to its Dichroic properties; it shows two, or more, shades of blue depending how light strikes the surface.

This gemstone is also known as the Vikings Compass as it is believed that Viking explorers may have taken thin slices of Iolite with them when navigating the open seas. Iolite can be used as a polarizing filter to determine the direction of the sun on overcast days due to its ability to show different colours as light enters the stone through a different axis.

Measuring 7-7.5 on the Gem hardness scale (Diamond being 10) Iolite is a very durable stone. However, care should be taken when cleaning. Wash with warm soapy water and avoid harsh solvents.