Iolite, the gemstone of the Vikings, is very often minstaken for Tanzanite. It is bluish violet in color where the prominent blue tone resembles blue sapphire and the lighter one, tanzanite. The name Iolite has been taken from the Greek word 'ios' which means violet.

Iolite posesses pleochroism, showing of different colors when viewed from different angles and sides. This excellent quality is sometimes a hindrance in cutting. It needs to be handled with expert to make sure of the best color to be shown when viewed from above.

Believes says this stone to be the stone of happiness and joy. It is believed to possess Feng Shui properties which helps in building relationships with others. It cures sore throat, varicose veins and various skin eruptions and blisters. Vikings used to navigate on high seas with the help of Iolite. He used to determine the exact position of the sun by looking through the gemstone at a certain angle and he never used to get lost on the high seas.

Iolite mostly occurs in India, Sri Lanka, Mozambique and Brazil.