Labradorite

Physical Properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs scale. Color: Dark grey to grey-black base with iridescent labradorescence (blue, green, yellow splashes). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Specific Gravity: 2.68 - 2.72.

Formation & Geological History

Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and norite, as well as in anorthosites. It occurs as crystallizations from cooling magma. Significant deposits are found in rocks dating back to the Proterozoic era.

Uses & Applications

Mainly used in jewelry, as a gemstone for cabochons and beads. It is also highly popular for ornamental items, statues, and high-end architectural tiles or countertops. Highly valued by mineral collectors for its optical properties.

Geological Facts

It was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. The play of color is known as 'labradorescence' and is caused by internal light reflections from submicroscopic planes of exsolution lamellae within the feldspar.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its dark base color and rotating the specimen to find the characteristic 'flash' of hidden color. Major deposits are found in Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Russia, and Finland (Spectrolite variant).

Identified on: 5/3/2026

Mode: Standard