Iolite \I"o*lite\ ([imac]"[-o]*l[imac]t), n. [Gr. 'i`on a violet + -lite.] (Min.) A silicate of alumina, iron, and magnesia, having a bright blue color and vitreous luster; cordierite. It is remarkable for its dichroism, and is also called {dichroite}. A variety called {Caribbean iolite} has a lighter blue color. [1913 Webster +PJC]
Dichroite \Di"chro*ite\, n. [See {Dichroism}.] (Min.) Iolite; -- so called from its presenting two different colors when viewed in two different directions. See {Iolite}. [1913 Webster]