Labradorite (with Selenite and Malachite)
Plagioclase Feldspar var. Labradorite · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Triclinic, commonly found as massive or tabular crystal habits with characteristic polysynthetic twinning.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Framework silicates / Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8
Formation Process
Igneous formation, crystallizing slowly from cooling magma deep within the Earth's crust, often in large intrusive bodies or pegmatites.
About This Crystal
The dominant specimen at the bottom is a polished palm stone of Labradorite, exhibiting a dark grey-to-black body color with flashes of iridescent blue and green labradorescence. Stacked on top is a white, translucent ring or disc of Selenite (Satin Spar) and a small, vibrant green polished tumbling of Malachite featuring characteristic concentric banding.
Physical Characteristics
Labradorite: Vitreous to pearly luster, hardness of 6 to 6.5, specific gravity around 2.7, perfect cleavage in two directions, and uneven to conchoidal fracture. It is famous for its play of color known as labradorescence.
Optical Properties
Labradorite is doubly refractive (biaxial) with a refractive index ranging between 1.560 and 1.572. Its defining optical phenomenon is labradorescence, an optical interference effect caused by microscopic lamellar intergrowths.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Finland, Canada, Australia, and Mexico. Forms primarily in mafic igneous rocks like anorthosite, gabbro, and basalt.
Hardness & Durability
Labradorite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5. It possesses fair to good toughness but has two directions of good cleavage, making it susceptible to chipping if struck sharply. Moderate wearability for jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and warm water using a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can dull the surface polish.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Value is determined by the intensity, color range, and coverage of the labradorescence flash across the stone. Generally affordable as tumbled or polished display pieces.
Special Characteristics
Labradorescence (optical interference yielding iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and copper), caused by sub-microscopic phase separation in the plagioclase feldspar structure.
Lore & History
Labradorite is traditionally regarded as a stone of transformation, mysticism, and inner awakening. In Inuit legend, it is said to have fallen from the frozen fire of the Aurora Borealis. In modern crystal healing, it is associated with the throat and third-eye chakras, believed to protect the aura and enhance intuition.