Iolite 6x8mm Triangle Cut Faceted Rice Bead - 15-16 InchIolite 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.

Unsealed granite may discolor when exposed to oil

A particularly soft stone

The blue colors are photosensitive and may fade when exposed to excessive light or heat

they appear dark or black

with inclusions of iron oxide

tranquility

It is often thought of as an all-black stone

It is a stone of compassion and helps balance out extremes

It's soft chatoyancy is reminiscent of the moon's light

Good question

It occurs in a great variety of shapes and colors

where it was observed that the stone was often carried by eagles to their nests