mineral

Labradorite

Labradorite ((Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray to black baseline but exhibits 'labradorescence' (blue, green, yellow, orange flashes); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro through the slow cooling of magma. It is part of the plagioclase feldspar series, specifically an intermediate member rich in calcium.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and occasionally as a luxury countertop/building material in its more common 'spectrolite' or 'blue pearl' granite forms.

Geological facts

The shimmering iridescent play of color is caused by the interference of light within microscopic layers of alternating minerals (lamellar twinning) inside the stone. It was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by rotating the specimen under a light source to find the characteristic flash of color (labradorescence). Common locations include Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Norway, Finland, and Russia.