mineral

Labradorite

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

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

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.