Iolite Facts

    Iolite Facts

    Iolite Facts

    by

    Iolite Properties

    Chemical CompositionIt is Magnesium Aluminum Silicate and the chemical formula is Mg2Al4Si5O18.
    ColoursViolet blue, violet, yellowish gray, blue and bluish violet
    Specific Gravity2.53 – 2.78
    Refractive Index1.52 – 1.57
    LusterViterous.
    Hardness7 – 7.5 Mohs
    Solid StateTransparent.
    PleochroismVery high.
    FracturesUneven / conchoidal / brittle
    Bi-refringence0.001
    Crystal SystemOrthorhombic crystal system.
    CleavageDistinct in 3 directions.
    Heat SensitiveNo
    DispersionMedium 0.017
    PrecautionsProtect from sharp blows, direct sunlight, excessive heat, large temperature change. Avoid home ultrasonic cleaner.
    EnhancementNone
    SourceSri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Burma, Zaire, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Germany, Finland, Brazil, Canada, USA and Tanzania
    admin March 9, 2016 Iolite