mineral
Labradorite
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Gray-green, dark gray, brown, or colorless with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange (labradorescence). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Specific gravity: 2.68-2.72.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral →
Explore Labradorite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Gray-green, dark gray, brown, or colorless with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange (labradorescence). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Specific gravity: 2.68-2.72.
Formation & geological history
Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro, as well as anorthosite and metamorphic rocks through slow cooling of magma.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental objects, and as a gemstone due to its striking optical phenomenon (labradorescence).
Geological facts
Labradorite was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. According to Inuit folklore, the Northern Lights were trapped inside the rocks along the coast of Labrador until a brave warrior freed most of them with a spear strike.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its dark base color and characteristic flash of vibrant iridescent colors when rotated in the light. Commonly sourced from Canada, Madagascar, Finland, Australia, and Russia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral