mineral
Carved labradorite fish
Labradorite, calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar (approximately (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPolished/carved specimen with blue-green to golden iridescent flash (labradorescence), gray-black body, vitreous luster, and feldspar cleavage; hardness about 6–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity 2.68–2.72. The fish shape is human-made, but the material is natural geological material.
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Physical properties
Polished/carved specimen with blue-green to golden iridescent flash (labradorescence), gray-black body, vitreous luster, and feldspar cleavage; hardness about 6–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity 2.68–2.72. The fish shape is human-made, but the material is natural geological material.
Formation & geological history
Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as gabbro, basalt, and anorthosite as feldspar crystals; most gem-quality material is associated with Precambrian–Paleozoic terranes, notably Madagascar, Finland, Canada, and Norway.
Uses & applications
Used for carvings, cabochons, ornamental objects, beads, and decorative stone; generally a popular lapidary material rather than a high-value gemstone.
Geological facts
Its blue sheen results from light interference between microscopic lamellae produced by exsolution within the feldspar crystal. Strong flash is best seen by rotating the specimen under directed light.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by gray feldspar, two cleavage directions, moderate hardness, and blue or multicolor flash that changes with viewing angle; do not confuse it with moonstone or synthetic glass. Common sources include Madagascar, Labrador, Finland, and Norway.