igneous

Labradorite (a variety of Anorthosite or Plagioclase)

Labradorite (member of Plagioclase Feldspar series), (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8

Hardness: 6–6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to black body color with 'labradorescence' (iridescent flashes of blue, green, or gold). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6–6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 29, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt or gabbro through the slow cooling of magma. The characteristic 'schiller' effect or play of color is caused by sub-microscopic exsolution lamellae (layers) of different feldspar compositions within the stone, which diffract light.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and high-end architectural materials (countertops or wall tiles). It is also highly valued by mineral collectors for its unique optical properties.

Geological facts

Labradorite was first discovered in 1770 on Paul’s Island in Labrador, Canada. Inuit legends claim that the Aurora Borealis was once trapped inside the rocks of Labrador and was released by a warrior striking them with a spear, leaving some of the light behind in the stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its dark body color and rotating the specimen under a light source to find the characteristic 'flash' of color. Common locations include Canada (Labrador), Madagascar, Finland (known as Spectrolite), and Russia.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral