mineral

Labradorite

Labradorite (a calcium-enriched sodic plagioclase feldspar mineral - (Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8)

Hardness: 6.0 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Dark gray to greenish-gray with internal labradorescence (shiller) flashes of blue, green, and gold; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro, often found in anorthosite complexes. It occurs in large, plutonic igneous masses that cooled slowly, allowing for the internal exsolution lamellae that cause its signature optical effect.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads) and as an ornamental stone for carvings and interior decor like countertops or tiles. It is also highly popular among mineral collectors and the metaphysical community.

Geological facts

First discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. The spectacular play of light is called labradorescence, which is caused by light reflecting off microscopically thin layers of different feldspar minerals within the stone.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for a dull gray, glassy stone that exhibits a sudden flash of electric blue or green when tilted under light. Common locations include Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Finland (where it is called Spectrolite), and Russia.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

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

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral