mineral

Labradorite

Labradorite (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8

Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Dark grey to grey-black with labradorescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Good in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.72.

Hardness: 6
Color: Dark grey to grey-black with labradorescence
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 2, 2026More mineral →

Explore Labradorite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Dark grey to grey-black with labradorescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Good in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.68-2.72.

Formation & geological history

Formed in mafic igneous rocks like basalt and gabbro through the slow cooling of silica-poor magma. Most significant deposits range from the Mesoproterozoic era.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry, decorative ornaments, and used in building facades or countertops (granite-alternative).

Geological facts

It is famous for 'labradorescence', an optical effect created by internal light reflections from submicroscopic layers of exsolution lamellae within the feldspar crystal.

Field identification & locations

Identify by rotating it under light to look for flashes of blue, green, or gold. Located commonly in Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Norway, and Finland.