mineral
Labradorite
Labradorite (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark grey to grey-green with schiller effect (labradorescence) in blue, green, or gold; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark grey to grey-green with schiller effect (labradorescence) in blue, green, or gold; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions
Formation & geological history
Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro, and also found in anorthosite. It crystallizes from cooling magma and develops its unique optical properties through exsolution lamellae during slow cooling.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, as decorative architectural stone (facades and countertops), and as a popular collector's mineral.
Geological facts
It is named after the Labrador peninsula in Canada, where it was first identified in 1770. The vibrant play of color it displays is called 'labradorescence,' caused by light diffraction within internal layers of the mineral.
Field identification & locations
Identify by tilting the stone to look for a metallic-like flash of color (blue or gold) against a dull grey background. Commonly found in Labrador (Canada), Madagascar, Finland, and Russia.
