mineral
Labradorite
(Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Dark grey to grey-black with iridescent flashes (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- 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; Color: Dark grey to grey-black with iridescent flashes (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
An intermediate member of the plagioclase series, typically forming in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and norite through slow cooling of magma.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, in lapidary work for ornamental carvings, and occasionally as decorative architectural stone (countertops or tiles).
Geological facts
The unique internal reflections are known as 'labradorescence,' caused by light diffracting off microscopic layers of exsolution lamellae within the crystal.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in Labrador (Canada), Finland, Madagascar, and Russia. Identified in the field by its dark body color contrasted against vivid flashes of electric blue, green, or gold when tilted.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous