mineral

Tumbled labradorite

Labradorite, calcium-sodium feldspar; plagioclase solid solution (approximately (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically hardness 6–6.5 Mohs, gray to dark body color, vitreous luster, and triclinic feldspar structure with two cleavage directions. The blue flash is labradorescence—iridescent light interference from fine internal lamellae.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as an igneous feldspar in basaltic to anorthositic rocks when plagioclase crystals cool and exsolve into microscopic layers. Major deposits occur in Precambrian anorthosite terrains, especially Madagascar, Finland, Canada, Norway, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone in cabochons, beads, carvings, and polished/tumbled specimens; decorative labradorite is also used in countertops and architectural stone.

Geological facts

Labradorescence varies with viewing angle and can appear blue, green, gold, or violet. The specimen shown is polished, so crystal faces and cleavage are largely obscured.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by a dark gray base and strong moving blue flash, rather than uniform surface color; distinguish it from blue glass or coated stones by its natural internal shimmer and feldspar hardness. Commonly found in Canada, Madagascar, Finland, Norway, and Russia.