mineral

Labradorite

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

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Gray-green to dark gray with iridescent play of colors (labradorescence). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal system: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Specific gravity: 2.68-2.72.

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and norite, as well as in some metamorphic rocks and anorthosites. Its unique iridescence is caused by the lamellar twinning of different feldspar compositions during cooling.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative carvings, as a collection specimen, and occasionally in high-end architectural tiles or countertops.

Geological facts

First identified in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. The spectacular flash of color is known as 'labradorescence' and is not a surface color but a light-scattering effect occurring within microscopic layers of the mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by rotating the stone under light to see a sudden 'flash' of blue, green, or gold. Often found in Canada, Madagascar, Finland, and Norway. High-grade specimens from Finland are specifically called Spectrolite.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral