mineral
Labradorite
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8 (Plagioclase Feldspar)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Gray-green, dark grey, brown, or black with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and copper (labradorescence); 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 the Mohs scale; Color: Gray-green, dark grey, brown, or black with iridescent flashes of blue, green, gold, and copper (labradorescence); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily 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
Commonly used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative items, and as a popular specimen among crystal collectors.
Geological facts
Labradorite exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called labradorescence, which is caused by the light interference of microscopic lamellar intergrowths.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its dark base color and striking flashes of iridescent color when rotated under a light source. Found famously in Labrador, Canada, as well as Finland, Madagascar, Australia, and the USA.
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