mineral
Labradorite
Plagioclase Feldspar (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, typically gray-green to dark grey with distinctive chatoyancy or labradorescence showing iridescent blue and gold flashes, vitreous luster, and perfect cleavage in two directions.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, typically gray-green to dark grey with distinctive chatoyancy or labradorescence showing iridescent blue and gold flashes, vitreous luster, and perfect cleavage in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Forms in mafic igneous rocks like gabbro, basalt, and anorthosite through slow cooling of magma deep within the Earth's crust.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a decorative dimension stone, in high-end jewelry, and as a popular collector specimen due to its optical phenomenon.
Geological facts
First discovered on Paul Island in Labrador, Canada, in 1770, labradorite's colorful flash is caused by light interference within microscopic lamellar intergrowths.
Field identification & locations
Readily identified in the field by its distinct lamellar twinning striations on cleavage planes and characteristic dark body color with colorful spectral flashes. Commonly sourced from Canada, Madagascar, and Finland.
