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Introduction
Indicolite, also known as Blue Tourmaline, is a rare and complex magnesium iron boro-aluminium silicate hydroxide mineral. This variety of tourmaline is distinguished by its blue or blue-black color, ranging from light to dark and saturated hues. Indicolite's deep indigo color is so notable that it was originally named Indigolite. Highly sought after by collectors and jewelry designers, this stone is found in only a few locations worldwide, including Brazil, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Namibia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Kenya, the United States, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Malawi.
History and Origin
Indicolite, a member of the Tourmaline group, is often found in metamorphic rocks and high-temperature hydrothermal veins. It is part of the Elbaite Tourmaline variety, which is known for being the most colorful group in the Tourmaline family. This makes Indicolite one of the most coveted crystal specimens globally.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Indicolite's chemical formula is Na(Mg 2+, Fe 2+, Fe 3+)Fe 3+(Si_6O_18)(BO_3)_3(O, OH)_3(OH). It is a complex mineral with a rich blue or blue-black hue, attributed to tiny iron impurities within its structure.
Symbolism and Meaning
Indicolite is renowned for its spiritual and healing properties. It is believed to enhance communication, open the third eye and throat chakras, and foster a connection with the spiritual realm. This crystal is thought to develop psychic and intuitive abilities, promote clairsentience, and facilitate communication with spirits and guardian angels. Indicolite is also said to encourage open-heartedness, tolerance, and a sense of responsibility towards others, making it a stone of peace and harmony.
Use in Jewelry and Design
Indicolite's strong pleochroism, which means it appears darker when viewed down the crystal, makes it a challenging but rewarding stone for jewelers to work with. Its rarity and distinctive color make it one of the most valuable and collectible Elbaite tourmalines. When cutting Indicolite, jewelers must consider its strength and darkness to preserve its clarity and brilliance, especially in darker specimens. Indicolite is also recognized as an October birthstone and is highly prized in the jewelry industry for its strong healing properties.
Care and Maintenance
General tourmaline care guidelines suggest that warm, soapy water is best for cleaning, and ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided.
Interesting Facts
Indicolite is electrically charged when exposed to pressure or heat, demonstrating its ability to interact with energy fields.
It has been used throughout history for its healing properties and is still considered a strong healing gemstone today.
Indicolite's rarity and unique color make it one of the most sought-after gems among collectors and jewelry designers.
Conclusion
Indicolite's combination of rare beauty, powerful healing properties, and spiritual significance make it a highly valued gemstone in both the metaphysical and jewelry worlds. Its unique characteristics and rarity ensure that it continues to captivate collectors, healers, and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
#Tourmaline #Indicolite #Blue