mineral

Labradorite

Plagioclase Feldspar ((Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8)

Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Gray-green, dark gray, brown, or colorless with distinctive iridescent play of colors (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.68 to 2.72

Hardness: 6 to 6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and anorthosite, as well as in metamorphic and pegmatitic environments through slow cooling of magma.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, in high-end jewelry for cabochons, and as a dimension stone for architectural accents.

Geological facts

Labradorite is famous for its optical phenomenon called labradorescence, caused by light diffraction from microscopic lamellar intergrowths. It was first discovered on the Isle of Paul in Labrador, Canada, in 1770.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its dark base color and flashes of vibrant blue, green, gold, or copper when rotated in the light. Commonly found in Canada, Madagascar, Finland, Australia, and the USA.

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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

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