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I am iolite. Seafaring Vikings used me to filter the haze and glare
from their eyes, and my power over the sun aided these fearless warriors
in navigating the vast oceans upon which they sailed. My name is from
the Greek "los", meaning violet.
Iolite, mined in India, Sri Lanka, Africa and Brazil, can be obtained
in sizes up to 4 to 5 carats reasonably easily, although much larger gems
have been found. It is commonly cut into traditional shapes, and its most
desirable color is a rich violet-blue.
While it is not as well known as its blue counterparts Sapphire and
Tanzanite, this pleasing blue gemstone is gaining widespred popularity
for its beauty and its attractive affordability.
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