Labradorite
Feldspar group, Plagioclase series, Labradorite variety · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Triclinic, typically forms in massive, tabular, or granular habits with common polysynthetic twinning
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Formation Process
Igneous and metamorphic formation, predominantly found in mafic igneous rocks like gabbro, basalt, anorthosite, and sometimes in pegmatites
About This Crystal
Tumbled and polished smooth stone displaying a dark grey to greenish-blue body color with characteristic iridescent flashes of light, known as labradorescence, ranging from blue and green to gold
Physical Characteristics
Dark grey to smoky body color with white streak, good cleavage in two directions at roughly right angles, uneven to conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.70-2.74, brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Biaxial positive with refractive indices around 1.560 to 1.572, exhibits strong labradorescence (schiller effect) caused by sub-microscopic lamellar intergrowths
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Finland, Canada (Labrador), Australia, Mexico, and the USA
Hardness & Durability
6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, fair to good toughness, but vulnerable to cleavage along specific planes if dropped or struck sharply
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemical solvents, store separately from harder gems to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon, highly valued for specimens displaying vibrant multicolored labradorescence; widely affordable tumbled stones, with high-grade multi-color slabs commanding higher prices
Special Characteristics
Exhibits prominent labradorescence, an optical phenomenon resulting from light interference in microscopic lamellae layers within the plagioclase feldspar
Lore & History
Associated with transformation, mystical powers, and strengthening intuition; linked traditionally to the third eye and throat chakras, famously featured in Inuit folklore relating the stone to the Northern Lights