mineral
Labradorite
Labradorite (a calcium-enriched sodic plagioclase feldspar)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs, Color: Gray-green with iridescent blue/gold flashes (labradorescence), Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal Structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs, Color: Gray-green with iridescent blue/gold flashes (labradorescence), Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal Structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and norite. It is also found in anorthosite. It forms through slow cooling of silicate melts at depth or in volcanic environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons, beads) and as a decorative stone in architecture (countertops, tiles). Also popular as a metaphysical and collector specimen.
Geological facts
Labradorite is famous for the 'Schiller effect' or labradorescence, which is caused by light reflecting off internal microscopic planes of different mineral compositions. High-quality specimens from Finland are called Spectrolite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by rotating the specimen in light to see the characteristic blue, green, or gold flashes. Found commonly in Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Finland, and Russia. Look for dark gray minerals that suddenly 'glow' when tilted.
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