mineral
Labradorite
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Dark gray, brown, or black base with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and copper (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Good in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.72.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Dark gray, brown, or black base with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and copper (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Good in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.72.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalt and gabbro, as well as anorthosite and metamorphic rocks, through slow cooling of magma allowing the crystallization of plagioclase feldspar.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry making, ornamental objects, countertops, and cherished by collectors for its optical phenomenon.
Geological facts
Labradorite is renowned for its labradorescence, an optical phenomenon caused by light diffraction within microscopic lamellar intergrowths in the feldspar structure.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its dark appearance in low light that suddenly flashes vibrant iridescent colors when moved under a light source. Found famously in Labrador, Canada, as well as Finland, Madagascar, and Australia.
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