Iolite Stone 5.42 Carat (5.96 Ratti) (Kaka Neeli Stone)

Certified Natural Iolite Stone (Kaka Neeli) – 5.42 Carat (5.96 Ratti) Oval Mix Cut

This Certified Natural Iolite Stone (Kaka Neeli Stone) weighs exactly 5.42 Carats (5.96 Ratti) with calibrated dimensions of 14 x 10 x 6.5 mm. Expertly faceted into a brilliant Oval Mix Cut, this Earth-mined gemstone exhibits a rich violet-blue hue with vivid transparency and remarkable pleochroism, shifting between deep blue, violet, and yellowish-gray when viewed from differing optical crystal axes.

Mineralogical Identity & Optical Properties: Iolite is the transparent, gem-quality variety of Cordierite (magnesium iron aluminum cyclosilicate, (Mg,Fe)₂Al₃(AlSi₅O₁₈)). Its defining optical hallmark is extreme trichroism (pleochroism). Under gemological testing, it displays a refractive index of 1.542 to 1.551, a specific gravity of ~2.61, and a resilient Mohs hardness of 7.0 to 7.5. Because iolite has distinct cleavage along {010}, expert lapidary orientation is required during cutting to showcase its optimal violet-blue face-up color.

Cultural Legacy & Traditional Context: Revered historically as the legendary “Viking Compass” (used by Norse seafarers as a polarizing light filter to locate the sun on overcast days) and known across the Indian lapidary trade as Neeli or Kaka Neeli, Iolite holds an esteemed place in gem traditions. In Vedic astrology, it is the primary secondary substitute (Upratna) for Natural Blue Sapphire (Neelam) associated with Saturn (Shani). It is popularly set in Sterling Silver (925 Silver), White Gold, or Panchdhatu for rings and pendants.

Please Note: Ratna Gems shares these historical, cultural, and gemological details solely for educational awareness. We sell all gemstones strictly on the basis of verified physical authenticity, mineral quality, and accredited laboratory certification, and make no astrological, metaphysical, or curative claims.

Care Instructions

• Clean gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, then dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning; thermal shock and ultrasonic vibration can exploit cleavage lines.
• Avoid exposure to harsh household acids, ammonia, and abrasive scouring pastes.
• For everyday ring wear, a protective bezel setting is recommended, and the ring should be removed during strenuous manual labor.

Frequently Asked Questions