Labradorite
Feldspar group, Plagioclase series, Labradorite · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Triclinic, commonly found as massive, granular, or tabular crystals, often showing polysynthetic twinning
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Formation Process
Igneous formation, crystallizing slowly from cooling magmas, particularly in mafic rocks like anorthosites, gabbros, and basalts
About This Crystal
A polished, tumbled smooth stone displaying a dark greyish-green body color with a distinct iridescent flash of blue light across its surface, known as labradorescence, with minor surface fissures and natural inclusions visible
Physical Characteristics
Dark gray to greenish-gray body color with white streak, good cleavage in two directions at nearly right angles, uneven to conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of around 2.71, brittle tenacity, non-magnetic, and generally non-fluorescent
Optical Properties
Biaxial positive with two refractive indices ranging between 1.559 and 1.568, showing strong optical interference phenomena known as labradorescence due to light diffraction from microscopic lamellar intergrowths
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Canada (Labrador), Finland, Australia, Russia, and Mexico; found in mafic igneous rocks
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, fair to good toughness, moderately stable but sensitive to sudden thermal shock and strong acids, making it suitable for pendants and earrings but requires care in rings
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemical solvents, store separately from harder stones to prevent scratching, and protect from prolonged direct sunlight
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon depending on the quality of the flash and transparency, value is determined by the intensity and color range of the labradorescence, generally affordable with polished tumbled stones costing very little
Special Characteristics
Displays prominent labradorescence, an optical phenomenon characterized by vibrant flashes of peacock blue, green, gold, or copper when light hits the microscopic lamellae inside the crystal structure
Lore & History
Associated with transformation, inner strength, and perseverance in modern crystal healing, traditionally linked with the Third Eye and Throat chakras, and connected in Inuit lore to the Northern Lights trapped in the rocks along the coast of Labrador