mineral
Labradorite
(Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8 (Calcium Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Gray-green to dark gray. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Displays labradorescence (iridescent play of color), specifically metallic blues and golds.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Gray-green to dark gray
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Gray-green to dark gray. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Displays labradorescence (iridescent play of color), specifically metallic blues and golds.
Formation & geological history
Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt or gabbro through crystallization of magma. It is part of the plagioclase feldspar series.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for collectors interested in metaphysics or mineralogy.
Geological facts
The unique flash of color, known as labradorescence, is caused by internal lamellar structures that diffract light. It was first identified in Labrador, Canada, in 1770.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic iridescent flash when rotated under light against a dark gray base color. Commonly found in Canada, Madagascar, Norway, and Finland.
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