As a navigation tool, the stunning purple-blue gemstone, iolite, often saved the ancient Viking mariner from sure disaster on the high seas. When viewed through a lens crafted of iolite, the first low-tech polarizing filter, the sun's location could be pin-pointed with accuracy. The iolite stone, a variety of Cordierite, was often called a "Water Sapphire," for it's mystical blue appearance, but if you look hard enough, you will see that the blue is not uniform. The stone is a wonderful example of "pleochroism," or a slight variegation in the stone in which there are three different shades of blue that range from purple-blue to sapphire to a watery light blue-violet. Spiritually, the stone represents the Higher Self and was used by ancient shamans to dispel discord and to add an accuracy to their visions; the ancients also believe that iolite is a shield against victimization. Sounds like a real paladin stone. . .and, it's gorgeous. I took this rather unique strand of faceted roundels and paired the stones with corrugated 14k gold roundels. The contrast is rich and satisfying. The clasp on this 16-1/2" choker-length circlet, by the way, is very secure and has a built-in protective guard.
Retail Price: $1000.00
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