5.05 ct. Malagasy Iolite
Color: Medium Dark Grayish Blue/Violet
Clarity: Eye Clean
Origin: Madagascar
Cut: Cushion Mixed
Treatments: None
Measurements: 11.8 x 9.9 mm
From the remarkably versatile deposits in Madagascar comes this fine, larger gem Iolite with something of a twist. Rather than be cut to simply take advantage of the violet-blue color, as is the market norm and what is expected, this gem has been cut in an orientation which presents both the classic violet blue and the near colorless, gray pleochroism in the face-up direction. While this was almost surely done to save weight, it turned out extremely well and we are actually quite fond of this surprising look - there is absolutely no other gem material that could look like this; one look and it is unquestionably Iolite. Additionally, clean 5 + carat stones are no longer easily available so this one can count scarcity along with a great presence.