Iolite & White Topaz Sterling Silver Ring

Birthstone Month:
Iolite is not associated with any particular birthstone month.

History & Lore:
The name Iolite is derived from the Greek words “ios” meaning violet and “lithos” meaning stone. Iolite has also been referenced as Water Sapphire, though the origin of this is uncertain. Some believe it dates back to when the Vikings used Iolite as a navigational aid on their legendary sea journeys. Others believe it was derived from an Iolite trait known as Pleochroism. Regardless of which origin is correct, the name Water Sapphire is no longer in use.

Iolite's earliest recording dates back to the legendary sea journeys of Leif Eriksson and his tribe of Viking explorers who ventured far out into the Atlantic Ocean, away from any coastline, in search of the New World. With them on this venture the Vikings carried thin slices of Iolite that would be used as the World's first polarizing filter. Looking through the Iolite lenses they could determine the exact position of the sun, therefore being able to navigate safely to the New World and back.
Iolite aids in leading the wearer to inner knowledge, increases spiritual insight, and helps with viewing an issue from both sides clearly. It is said to bring harmony to one's self and helps eliminate tension in relationships. It has also been said to contribute to leadership ability, inner strength, and self-confidence.
Physically, it helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and can eliminate harmful toxins. It is also said to fight against malaria and fever producing disorders.
When cut correctly, Iolite should appear a purplish-blue, with a softness to its color that is both desirable and attractive. The value of Iolite depends on the blue coloration. The richer the blue, the better.
Iolite has an extraordinary property of exhibiting three different colors when viewed at different axes. This property is known as Pleochroism. Iolite will look a violet blue from one side, a clear water from the opposite side, and a honey yellow when viewed at its top. Because of this factor, it makes cutting this gemstone a somewhat difficult task. The gemstone cutter needs to cut from the exact correct direction relative to its axis, regardless of the shape of the rough stone, for it to exhibit its finest color. The most common shape that Iolite is cut into is Oval because of the strong distinction in color it produces.
There are no known enhancements for Iolite.
Topaz
Birthstone Month:
Yellow Topaz is associated with the birthstone month of November and Blue Topaz is associated with the birthstone month of December.
History & Lore:
Topaz has long been related to desire and the name is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word 'tapas' meaning heat, fire and passion. It is also said to have been derived from the Greek word 'topazos' or 'topazion', meaning “to search.” Topazion was also the name of an island in the Red Sea which today is commonly known as Zebirget or St. John's Island in Egypt.
The Egyptians believed that Topaz would protect them from harm because they believed it was colored by the sun god Ra's golden arms. The Romans believed in a similar theory and associated Topaz with their sun god, Jupiter.
Topaz has also been biblically referenced as one of the gemstones used to make the 'Breastplate of Judgement' worn by Aaron.
Topaz is said to increase the wearer’s intelligence, creativity and wisdom, and can enhance one's spiritual potential. It is also known to aid in meditation and in the divine manifestation of desired objects.
Topaz is said to bring physical and intellectual vigor, good health, and is said to offer protection against infectious diseases.
Topaz comes in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Its brilliance and clarity are its chief attractions. A hard stone, Topaz is very difficult to scratch, although it can be brittle. Imperial Topaz occurs naturally in colors ranging from a light golden yellow to deep reddish orange. Red and intense pink are the rarest and desirable colors for Topaz. A gem with these colors will command a relatively high price. Bright orange colored Topaz, also known as Imperial Topaz, falls into the moderate price range and is easier to find. Blue Topaz, having a low to moderate price range, is very popular, primarily because of moderate pricing and the availability of a wide variety of shades, sizes and shapes.