Iolite or Tanzanite Ring, are they similar?

[justwrite]

I went to the jewelry store last weekend and was looking for a tanzanite ring. This was to be an engagement ring, the price was too high and I almost gave up when the sales girl showed me another ring.

The gemstone looked very similar to a tanzanite gem, it seemed to have a little flattish color with no sparkle but came very close to a tanzanite. The girl told me that it was an Iolite gemstone and was much cheaper than a tanzanite gemstone. Can anyone explain the difference between iolite and tanzanite please, are they natural gems?

I am looking for a men's iolite ring so expect to pay a bit since the gemstone would be quite large.

Thanks in advance.
Justwrite.

[ZiaAries]

I have an idolite ring. It's okay. I never wear it anymore. Tanzanite is pricey yes, but it's more brilliant. They are both natural gemstones. I think Tanzanite come from the West Indes. I don't know where Idolite is mined from. The difference would be in their chemical compound. Tanzanite will soon be considered a precious gem if it isn't already. It's up to you but if this is your engagement ring, it sould be something special. I suggest you go to a website about gemstones or do a search and compare the two gems. You would want a gem that is very hard. I'm not for sure about the hardness of idolite. You wouldn't want it to break or crack. Good luck with this.
PS Why not a diamond?