Iolite (also known as cordierite) is a magnesium iron aluminum silicate. This mineral is also pleochroic which means that it appears yellowish or bluish depending on the angle at which it is viewed. This sapphire look-alike is known as the vikings compass because it was used to determine the direction of the sun on overcast days.
The variety of feldspar named sunstone is of the plagioclase variety. The orange-gold and sometimes brown sunstone formed in molten lava. It displays reflections from minute scales of hematite or sometimes goethite, pyrite or copper. The glittery effect is known as aventurescence due to the similar visual effect found in aventurine. It is related to labradorite and moonstone, other types of feldspars also known for the schiller effect they produce.
While iolite is said to enhance leadership ability, inner strength and self confidenc, sunstone is believed to heighten intuition and to instill a feeling of joy.
The variety of feldspar named sunstone is of the plagioclase variety. The orange-gold and sometimes brown sunstone formed in molten lava. It displays reflections from minute scales of hematite or sometimes goethite, pyrite or copper. The glittery effect is known as aventurescence due to the similar visual effect found in aventurine. It is related to labradorite and moonstone, other types of feldspars also known for the schiller effect they produce.
While iolite is said to enhance leadership ability, inner strength and self confidenc, sunstone is believed to heighten intuition and to instill a feeling of joy.
