mineral

Labradorite (Tumbled)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to gray-black with iridescent flashes (labradorescence) of blue, green, or gold. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal system: Triclinic. Specific Gravity: 2.68 to 2.72.

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt or gabbro through the slow cooling of magma. It is characterized by an internal structure that causes light to diffract (Schiller effect). Significant deposits are Proterozoic in age.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative objects, countertops, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors due to its optical properties.

Geological facts

Labradorite was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. Inuit legends claim the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) were trapped inside the rocks of the coast of Labrador, and a warrior struck them with a spear to release some of the light.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for the 'labradorescence' flash when rotating the stone under light. Common locations include Canada, Madagascar, Norway, and Finland (where a high-quality variety called Spectrolite is found).