Cordierite (Iolite): History, Origin, Composition, Virtues, Significance and Reloading of the stone

Cordierite also known as Iolite is one of the silicates. Cordierite is a gentle, spiritual stone, and its lithotherapy virtues should not be overlooked, especially for its spiritual and physical benefits.

History of Cordierite (Iolite) stone

Cordierite or Iolite takes its name from the Greek "ios" meaning "purple". It is said to have been linked to Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom, although no account has confirmed this. It was then used by the Vikings as a compass on overcast days. That's why it's also known as the "Viking stone" or "compass stone".

Cordierite stone was first described in 1813 by a mineralogist named Lucas. A geologist named Louis Cordier described the stone and named it "dichroïte", meaning "duo of colors". Later, as a tribute to the geologist, the stone changed its name to "Cordiérite".

At one time, Cordierite was nicknamed "water sapphire", but the CIBJO (The World Jewellery Confederation) forbade it to be called such. Today, Cordierite is used in the jewelry industry.

Origin and composition of Cordierite (Iolite) stone

Cordierite or Iolite is a mineral belonging to the silicate group, with the chemical formula Al3Mg2AlSi5O18. It contains traces of manganese, iron, titanium, calcium, sodium and potassium. Its composition makes it insoluble in water or acid and fire-resistant. Cordierite has a density of 2.56.

Cordierite stone forms in clayey sediments metamorphosed by thermal pressure. It can be found in aluminum-rich zones alongside biotite or andalusite. It can also be found in magmatic rocks or granitic pegmatites.

Origin of Cordierite stone

Deposits of Cordierite can be found in Burma, Brazil, India, Madagascar and Sri Lanka. The hardness of Cordierite stone varies between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale.

Virtues and significance of Cordierite (Iolite) in lithotherapy

Cordierite or Iolite is a stone that relieves addictions and aids sleep.

The natural stone Cordierite in lithotherapy

The benefits of Cordierite on the physical aspect are its effectiveness against internal body problems and reinforcement of the immune system. It is beneficial for the liver, heart and kidneys; the stone also helps regulate the respiratory and intestinal systems. In addition, Cordierite has detoxifying virtues, particularly for people prone to addictions.

As far as the psychic aspect is concerned Cordierite is indispensable for its soothing and spiritual virtues. The stone possesses spiritual properties, promoting the circulation of energy between the chakras, accompanying the user on his or her spiritual journey andspiritual elevation. In addition, Cordierite is said to be protective at night, eliminating nightmares, anxiety and improving sleep.

Note that lithotherapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or expertise.

Significance of Cordierite stone

Cordierite is a symbol of spirituality and peace.

It is attributed to the coronal chakra for its connection with the divine and spiritual energy. Cordierite is also linked to the 3rd eye chakra to amplify psychic perception and open the mind.

Cordierite is associated with the signs Cancer, Sagittarius and Pisces. It's perfect for celebrating 21 years of marriage.

Cordierite stone care, purification and recharging

It is possible to purify and cleanse Cordierite or Iolite with distilled water (unsalted) for 1 to 2 hours.

Once dry and clean, recharge it with lunar rays for several hours, or place it on a quartz cluster.