Iolite 6mm Round Faceted - Large Hole Beads Astrophyllite The addition of the rhodium

The addition of the rhodium plating not only protects these from oxidation but also highlights the Widmanstätten pattern

it makes it easier to polish and brings out the vibrant colors

and as such is a particularly soft stone

including Moonstone

and protective stone which promotes strength and vitality

Iolite 6mm Round Faceted - Large Hole Beads Astrophyllite The addition of the rhodiumIolite most commonly occurs in shades of blue to gray, violet or indigo. It displays a visual property called pleochroism, which means that it can appear to be different colors as it shifts in the light. According to Norse legend, Viking explorers used thin pieces of Iolite as the worlds first polarizing lens to help them determine the exact location of the sun for navigation.