A conversation with a customer at the Flea Off Market at Monnik Brewing on October 10 reminded me that some of the gemstones I work with deserve a little introduction. This time, it was Norwegian cordierite, a stone the customer wasn’t familiar with.

Discovering an unfamiliar gemstone is part of the fun of shopping for handmade jewelry. Beyond its appearance, there’s a story to explore: where it comes from, how it gets its name, and how it finds its way to the jeweler’s bench.

A Little History

Cordierite takes its name from French geologist Pierre Cordier. In the jewelry world, its gem-quality form is commonly known as iolite, a name derived from the Greek word for violet. Norway is among the countries where it occurs.

Iolite also has a place in Viking lore. According to legend, navigators used thin slices to help locate the sun through cloudy skies. It’s an intriguing connection to Nordic history, although its actual use by Vikings remains uncertain.

Another fascinating characteristic is pleochroism: the mineral can show different colors when viewed from different directions. Blue, violet, and paler tones can appear depending on the viewing angle.

The Norwegian cordierite I chose has a striking green-and-black pattern, a different appearance from the transparent blue-violet gemstone commonly known as iolite. Cordierite can undergo natural geological changes that produce greenish minerals.

From Norway to Tucson to My Workbench

I purchased my Norwegian cordierite gemstones from a supplier from Sweden whom I frequently visit at the Tucson Gem Show. Those visits are an opportunity to find interesting materials to bring back to Fire & Fusion Creations.

For me, the story continues when a gemstone becomes a piece of jewelry, and again when a customer pauses at my display to learn about it.

If Norwegian cordierite is new to you, you’re in good company. Come take a closer look at my gemstone jewelry online or visit me at an upcoming market or in Studio 172 at Mellwood Arts Center. I’m always happy to introduce you to something a little different.