Iolite 6mm Energy Prism - 15-16 Inch R1754 It was originally named for

It was originally named for the visible inclusions of the mineral Cacoxenite

whose color often caused ancient jewelers to confuse it with Emerald

translucent stone

Many stones in the Russian crown jewels from the 17th century which were thought to be rubies are actually red Tourmaline

Mined in Australia

Iolite 6mm Energy Prism - 15-16 Inch R1754 It was originally named forIolite most commonly occurs in shades of blue to gray, violet or indigo. It displays a visual property called pleochroism, which means that it can appear to be different colors as it shifts in the light. According to Norse legend, Viking explorers used thin pieces of Iolite as the worlds first polarizing lens to help them determine the exact location of the sun for navigation.