mineral

Labradorite (in Matrix)

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

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray to dark gray with metallic IRIDESCENCE (labradorescence) in blue, green, or gold; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees.

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro through the crystallization of magma. It is a calcium-enriched feldspar mineral that develops a lamellar structure during cooling, causing light interference.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative stone for countertops or tiles, and as a popular collector's mineral.

Geological facts

The unique play of color is known as 'labradorescence,' caused by internal light reflections from submicroscopic planes oriented in one direction. It was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770.

Field identification & locations

Identify by rotating the stone under a light source to reveal the hidden 'flash' of color. Often found in Canada, Madagascar, Norway, and Finland (where a high-quality variety called Spectrolite is found).

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock