Iolite (Neeli Ratna or Kakaneeli in Hindi) is a violet-blue colored, semi-precious gemstone from the Cordierite mineral family, which exhibits unique visual property called pleochroism. As an astrological substitute of Blue Sapphire (Neelam), it is worn to achieve professional success, financial stability and mental strength.
Promotes Spiritual Growth
Success in business
Patience and Detachment
Popularity and Fame
Who Should Wear Iolite Stone?
According to the Vedic astrology, Iolite meaning (Shani Priya or Neeli ratna in
Hindi) is associated with the planet Saturn. Astrologers recommend this gemstone to strengthen Saturn in an individual’s horoscope and consider this gemstone beneficial for people undergoing the tiring phase of ‘Shani-Saadsaati’, ‘Shani Ki Dhasa’ or ‘Mahadasha’ .
Indian astrology prescribes Nili stone for Makar (Capricorn) and Kumbh (Aquarius) rashi.
Western astrology recommends Iolite birthstone for Virgo zodiac sign.
Ascendants of Taurus, Gemini and Virgo can also wear Neeli gemstone.
According to the sacred scriptures, Iolite is the best uparatna or substitute of Blue Sapphire gemstone (Neelam) to gain beneficial results of planet Saturn. This gemstone is said to have some great metaphysical and healing properties that bring solace to people suffering from depression, disorientation and lack of motivation in life.
Will Iolite suit me? Should I wear an Iolite gemstone?
Find out whether Iolite stone is right for you, using our Free Gemstone Recommendation
Tool or Take an In-depth Phone Consultation with our Astrologers to find the right gemstone for you.
Promotes Professional Success
– Being associated with Saturn - the ‘Lord of Justice’, Iolite gemstone is known to compensate the individuals with just rewards and recognition. Therefore, Neeli stone benefits the professional lacking a lack of growth and occupational success.
Cures Unhealthy Addictions –
According to astrologers, Iolite healing properties activate the Crown Chakra and helps the wearer to gain control over the bad addictions and negative thoughts. Therefore, Nili gemstone benefits hugely to individuals addicted to smoking, drinking drug abuse, etc.
Bestows Mental Peace & Sound Sleep
– As per the traditional belief, wearing Neeli stone benefits the sleep cycle of the wearer and helps them to stay calm and composed. Astrologers believe that Neeli's benefits can surpass almost every other stone when it comes to curing psychological problems.
Attractive and affordable, Iolite gemstone is worn as an astrological as well as jewelry
gemstone. When buying Iolite, the quality of a blue Iolite gemstone is determined on the basis
of its origin, color, clarity, and cut to ensure the purchase of the best quality Iolite gemstone.
Origin
– Iolite gem deposits are present in Myanmar (Burma), India, Brazil, Madagascar, USA and Sri
Lanka. Amongst all these origin varieties, Indian Iolite and Madagascar Iolite are highly
sought-after for their shiny vitreous luster and brilliant hue.
Color
– Iolite color ranges from light to deep blue color, usually with a purplish tinge. Being a
pleochroic gemstone (also called Dichroite), this gemstone exhibits different color tones
from different angles. Bluish violet Iolite, Bluish purple Iolite, and yellowish grey Iolite are
some common color varieties. Generally, a bright medium to deep blue-colored Iolite gemstone
is considered most desirable for astrological use.
Clarity
– Iolite is a Type II clarity gemstone. It is commonly transparent with few visible natural
inclusions. Iolite crystals are often included with mineral inclusions, metallic platelets
and rutile etc. As per the trade rule, the fewer the inclusions, higher is the quality of
Iolite gemstone. Iolite containing brownish to reddish platelets are known as ‘Bloodshot
Iolite’ and is considered quite valuable because of its rare availability.
Cut
– Blue Iolite gemstone displays pleochroism (phenomena in which the gemstone reflects
different colors when viewed from different angles). Therefore, cutting an Iolite rough
needs special attention to maintain the brightness and shimmer. Quality-wise, a skilfully
faceted Iolite gem displays the best color, clarity and luster is considered best for
purchase.
Iolite Stone Price
Iolite stone price per carat largely depends upon its quality (color, clarity, and cut), size, and
origin.
Note – Currently, Neeli gemstone price in India starts from Rs 300 carat ($5
approx.) and can reach up to Rs 3,000 per carat ($45 approx.) plus depending upon
its quality and size. The prices in other countries such as USA, UK, and UAE may vary because of
the difference in demand and supply cycle.
Buyer Beware: Gemstone Weights in India are often expressed in Ratti (e.g. – Amber
stone price per ratti). This system can be used to dupe customers who are not knowledgeable
on how the conversion works. Read our guide to Understanding Gemstone Weights: Carats vs
Ratti, and Don’t Get Fooled by Gemstone Prices in Ratti, instead of Carats!
Origin
– A majority of good quality Iolite gems come from the Indian subcontinent and can rival many
other beautiful blue gemstones with its enchanting blue color and eye-catching luster. Thus,
Indian Iolites are highly valued in the gemstone industry.
Color
– Iolite gemstone value depends majorly on the color tone and saturation. A uniformly
saturated, soft medium violet-blue Iolite gemstone is considered most desirable and
precious. In contrast, too pale or excessively dark (with inky strains) blue Iolite gemstones
are considered relatively less valuable.
Clarity
– Eye-clean Iolite gemstone with optimum transparency draws higher value than the included
ones. The presence of visible inclusions, scratches, or pits often reduces the price of Iolite
gemstone in the market.
Cut
– Cut and shape also bear an influence on the overall value of Iolite. Highly faceted
(cushion, square, trillion cut) Iolite usually demands a higher value than oval and round
Iolite stones due to the gemstone loss incurred in the cutting process. One can go for
Iolite cabochons (non-faceted, polished gems) in case they are looking for a cheaper option.
Carat weight
– Top-quality Iolite in big sizes is rarely found in nature. Therefore, Iolite price per
carat increases substantially for stones above a few carats.
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Iolite is an exclusive violet-blue colored gem variety of the mineral Cordierite. It is addressed by different other names such as ‘Water Sapphire’, ‘Lux Sapphire’, ‘Dichroite’, ‘Nili or Kakaneeli’ etc. The term Dichroite is derived from Greek work which is roughly translated as a two-colored gem. It refers to the Iolite stone’s unique pleochroic nature (which means the gemstone exhibits different color tones from different viewing angles).
Choosing the right seller is the first and foremost step to getting a quality product. One can buy Iolite from any trusted online store or a local dealer. When purchasing Iolite online, one should always choose a retailer that provides certified gemstones with the assurance of a transparent Return and Refund Policy. For serious buyers, GemPundit.com can be a good starting point for buying authentic natural gemstones. You can also browse our huge catalog of certified, 100% natural Iolite loose gemstones in different tones of blue, size, and shape to find your favorite piece.