Labradorite
Feldspar group, Plagioclase series, Labradorite variety · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Triclinic, commonly found as massive, granular, or tabular crystals
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Formation Process
Igneous, forming primarily in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and anorthosite, as well as in pegmatites
About This Crystal
A tumbled, smooth, and polished pebble-sized specimen showing dark grey to greenish-grey body color with subtle areas of flash and internal fractures typical of feldspar minerals
Physical Characteristics
Dark grey to greenish body color, white streak, good cleavage in two directions at roughly right angles, uneven to conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.70 to 2.74, brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Biaxial positive with two refractive indices ranging from approximately 1.559 to 1.568, displays characteristic labradorescence (schiller effect) due to light interference from microscopic lamellar intergrowths
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Canada (Labrador), Finland, Australia, and Russia
Hardness & Durability
6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, fair toughness, sensitive to sudden temperature changes and harsh acids, moderate wearability for jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to strong acids or extreme thermal shock
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon, value depends heavily on the intensity and coverage of labradorescence or color flash, generally affordable as tumbled stones
Special Characteristics
Labradorescence, which produces striking flashes of peacock blue, gold, green, or copper light when viewed at specific angles
Lore & History
Discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770, associated in modern crystal healing with transformation, strengthening intuition, and protecting the aura, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims