mineral

Labradorite (White/Grey Labradorite)

Labradorite: (Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8

Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Grey-white with iridescent flashes; Luster: Vitreous to Pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.68-2.72.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Grey-white with iridescent flashes
Luster: Vitreous to Pearly

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Grey-white with iridescent flashes; Luster: Vitreous to Pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.68-2.72.

Formation & geological history

Found primarily in igneous rocks like basalt, gabbro, and norite. It forms when molten rock cools slowly, allowing for the exsolution of different feldspar minerals that create light-scattering layers.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), decorative carvings, architecture (countertops), and by crystal collectors for its optical properties.

Geological facts

The iridescent color display is called labradorescence, caused by internal light reflections from submicroscopic planes of exsolution lamellae within the feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Identify by rotating the stone under light to see internal blue, green, or gold flashes. Found extensively in Labrador (Canada), Madagascar, Finland, and Russia.

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Mineral/Rock

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Metamorphic Rock

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mineral