Iolite “Water Sapphire”
A property called pleochroism is very pronounced in Iolite, producing different colors when the stone is seen through different positions. Overall, Iolite appears as violet-blue or indigo, but in different positions may shift to a yellow-gray or honey color, and even to a clear light blue. It is also referred to as “Water Sapphire” or Dichroite. Iolite’s name comes from the Greek ios, meaning violet, and is the gem version of the mineral Cordierite.
Iolite balances the male/female aspects of one’s character and brings harmony within the self. By taking responsibility for one’s own life and happiness, it releases discord from relationships and helps overcome codependency within close partnerships. [Melody, 335][Hall, 148]
Iolite carries a violet-blue energy that activates and clears the Third Eye, opening communication and awareness from higher vibratory realms. [Ahsian, 207]
The brow chakra, also called the Third Eye, is the center of our perception and command. It directs our sight and everyday awareness of the world. Our consciousness is located here, and we relate to ourselves through this chakra.
It balances the important and the unimportant, sorting meaning from data and impressions. It commands the energy flow within the body. When the brow chakra is in balance we see clearly and understand what we see. We can interpret visual cues and our perception is high. Our thoughts and internal communications within ourselves are healthy and vibrant. We are open to new ideas, dreams, and visions. We can be quietly observant, and reflective. We can control the flow of energy within all the chakras. The dark blue/purple crystals of indigo are used to treat imbalances of the brow chakra. This is the color of an empty sky, of solitude and reflection. It is a quiet color, one of mystery and wisdom and judgment.
Iolite may also link with, or stimulate, the crown chakra, located at the top of the head. It is our gateway to the expanded universe beyond our bodies, and controls how we think and how we respond to the world around us. It is the fountainhead of our beliefs and the source of our spirituality.
Iolite is helpful if you are exploring Goddess energies. [Eason, 377]
Iolite honors Athena, the Greek Goddess of War and Wisdom. She is always depicted in armor and is known as a skilled fighter and strategist, and for her superb logic and intellect.
Violet and Indigo crystals also honor Sophia, Goddess of Wisdom and contradiction personified. She is the story of being lost then regained, the wisdom of understanding, doubting, and spiritual exploration without dogma.
[Ahsian, pp.] Robert Simmons & Naisha Ahsian, The Book of Stones (Berkley, CA: North Atlantic Books, 2007).
[Eason, pp. ]Cassandra Eason, The New Crystal Bible (London: Carlton Books Ltd., 2010).
[Hall, pp.] Judy Hall, The Crystal Bible (Cincinnati, OH: Walking Stick Press, 2003).
[Melody, pp.] Melody, Love Is In The Earth (Wheat Ridge, CO: Earth-Love Publishing House, 1995).