Labradorite
Feldspar group, Plagioclase series (Labradorite) · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Triclinic, commonly found as massive, granular, or platy aggregates with polysynthetic twinning
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates (Feldspar group)
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Formation Process
Igneous and metamorphic; crystallizes slowly from cooling magma, primarily in plutonic rocks such as anorthosites, and in some high-grade metamorphic rocks
About This Crystal
A polished, freeform display specimen showcasing a dark grey to smoky body color with intense, iridescent flashes of vibrant electric blue, gold, and teal. It has a vitreous to pearly luster and is mostly opaque with translucent areas where light hits the internal lamellae
Physical Characteristics
Dark gray to black body color with a white streak. Exhibits good cleavage in two directions intersecting at approximately 86 degrees. The fracture is uneven to conchoidal. Specific gravity ranges from 2.68 to 2.72. Tenacity is brittle
Optical Properties
Biaxial with a refractive index between 1.560 and 1.572. Characterized by labradorescence, a specialized form of adularescence caused by light interference within sub-microscopic lamellar intergrowths
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Canada (Paul's Island, Labrador), Finland, Norway, and Russia; forms in mafic igneous rocks like anorthosites and gabbros
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5. Moderate toughness, but vulnerable to sharp impacts due to distinct cleavage planes. Moderately suitable for jewelry if set in protective mounts
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemical solvents. Store away from harder gems to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon mineral, but high-grade specimens with broad, vivid blue or multi-color flash are valued higher. Prices range from moderate for small polished pieces to expensive for large exhibition displays. Treatments are rare as natural labradorescence is already striking
Special Characteristics
Exhibits prominent labradorescence (schiller effect), displaying brilliant flashes of iridescent blue, gold, and green light when viewed from specific angles due to phase exsolution lamellae
Lore & History
Discovered on Paul's Island in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. In Inuit folklore, the Northern Lights were said to be trapped in the rocks until a warrior freed them with a spear. In modern metaphysical practices, it is considered a stone of transformation, enhancing intuition, shielding against negative energy, and associated with the Third Eye and Throat chakras