Labradorite Gemstone Information

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Labradorite is a gemstone that was named after Labrador in Canada, where it was found on the Isle of Paul, near Nain in 1770. It has since been found in other places, including Finland, Madagascar, and Australia. After its discovery, labradorite became popular with the missionaries. Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar which shows adularescence (a white or bluish light seen when turned). This optical effect is so unique to labradorite that it has been termed "labradorescence". It is the result of diffraction of light in the layers of rock. When viewed at certain angles, labradorite exhibits such captivating color that has led to Inuit legends stating that the Northern Lights shone down on the shores of Labrador and were captured inside these colorful stones. The most highly valued labradorite is material that shows the full spectrum of color in its labradorescence. Labradorite that does not exhibit labradorescence can still make beautiful gemstones because of aventurescence, which is a glitter caused by diffraction of light from mineral platelets.

There are three further types of labradorite; spectrolite, andesine-labradorite and rainbow moonstone (which is sometimes referred to by the trade name, "Madagascar moonstone"). As the trade name indicates, rainbow moonstone comes from Madagascar and it has an intense blue schiller. Spectrolite is a rare labradorite from Finland. It is known for displaying a beautiful spectral play of color, hence the name, "spectrolite". Andesine-labradorite is created by enhancing the color of labradorite.

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Blue Sheen Labradorite Cabochon Click to enlarge image

Labradorite is found in Canada (Labrador, Newfoundland), Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Norway, Russia and the USA.

Labradorite Color

Labradorite is grey to grey-black with colorful iridescence, or spectral "labradorescence". This is a result of diffraction of light in the layers of rock. Popular colors are royal blue and multicolor. Labradorite can also be colorless, orange-red and brownish. The metallic tints of labradorite can show the full spectrum of color, especially in spectrolite, which is named after the full range of color that it exhibits.

Labradorite Clarity and Luster

The lustrous metallic schiller in labradorite is caused by the diffraction of light in the layers of rock. When labradorite is exposed to light and viewed at different angles, the schiller can be seen in different colors. The spectral play of color is a result of tiny, desirable inclusions. Transparent to translucent labradorite with few inclusions usually appears blue. Usually, the higher the clarity, the less the play of color. Labradorite is a transparent to opaque material. The translucent gemstones are more desirable because they display the sought-after labradorescence. Labradorite that does not exhibit labradorescence can still make beautiful gemstones because of aventurescence, which is a shimmer caused by diffraction of light from mineral platelets.

Labradorite Cut and Shape

Labradorite is mostly cut en cabochon or into fancy shapes for pendants. This is because cabochons maximize the iridescence. However, transparent gemstones can be faceted. Labradorite can also be cut into spherical shapes for beaded jewelry.

Labradorite Treatment

Labradorite is not currently known to be treated or enhanced. However, "andesine-labradorite" is the name given to a form of color-enhanced labradorite.

Please refer to our Gemstone Glossary for details of gemology-related terms.

Andesine-Labradorite

Since labradorite is a feldspar, it is related to the feldspar group. Of the feldspar group, labradorite is closest related to the plagioclases, due to their calcium and sodium components. The other plagioclase feldspars are albite, oligoclase, andesine-labradorite, bytownite and anorthite. The plagioclase feldspars are minerals that constitute an important component of almost every igneous rock, which makes up a great deal of the Earth's crust. Albite has a higher double refraction than labradorite, whilst oligoclase has a lower double refraction than labradorite. Andesine has a lower refractive index than labradorite. Bytownite is typically colorless, white, grey or pale yellow whereas labradorite is usually darker colors. Anorthite is transparent with a higher refractive index than labradorite. Labradorite is sometimes called "rainbow moonstone" (or by its trade name; "Madagascar moonstone") due to its adularescence, but true moonstone is a potassium orthoclase feldspar with a lower density and monoclinic crystals. Rainbow moonstone, as the trade name indicates, comes from Madagascar. It is an almost transparent oligoclase material (plagioclase), with a strong blue metallic luster. Rainbow moonstone is not a true moonstone; true moonstone is comprised of potassium orthoclase feldspar, but it is closely related to moonstone.

According to an Inuit legend, the Northern Lights are captured in the minerals on the coast of Labrador. This is not surprising considering the magical, iridescent color of labradorite. Labradorite is thought to be a magical stone that possesses powerful protective properties and helps its wearer to find their true path in life. It is thought to "bring light" to the otherwise unknown, and thus provide its wearer with insight. Additionally, labradorite is credited with having the ability to bring out the positive in people and calm overactive minds, bringing peace to its wearer. Labradorite is also thought to soothe menstrual problems, aid disorders of the lungs, prevent colds, help with digestion and regulate both metabolism and blood pressure. In traditional Hindu belief systems, labradorite is associated with the throat chakra, or vishuddha, which is the center of purification. The throat chakra is associated with hearing, speech and self-expression. Wearing labradorite is thought to contribute to true and honest expression. Labradorite is said to facilitate communication between the spiritual and physical world, helping its wearer to recall dreams and experiences from past lives. It is therefore thought to help bring out psychic abilities.

Labradorite is a versatile material that can be cut en cabochon or into fancy shapes. It can also be faceted or drilled and set in silver, gold or other materials. Labradorite is often used to make attractive pendants and rings. It can also be used to create earrings or beaded jewelry, using tumbled stones or spherically cut stones. Depending on the cut and setting, labradorite is suitable for both men and women. Although labradorite is softer than quartz, it is durable and not brittle. In fact, labradorite gemstones from the Victorian era remain lustrous and beautiful; proof of labradorite's durability. Bezel settings can help to protect labradorite from being scratched by harder substances.

Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight. Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamonds by weight in comparison.

Although famous labradorite gemstones are unknown, there are some historically and culturally interesting pieces of labradorite. One such example is a carved labradorite soldier cameo of unknown age, which is displayed in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington. Labradorite was also used as a decorative stone in the 19th century St Isaac's Cathedral in St Petersburg, Russia.

Although labradorite has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which is softer than quartz, it is a durable material. This is thought to be because labradorite is not brittle. To clean your labradorite, simply use soapy water and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse well to remove soapy residue. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Always remove any jewelry or gemstones before exercising, cleaning or engaging in harsh physical activities such as sports. Labradorite can be easily scratched by harder substances, so it should be stored away from other gemstones. It is best to wrap gemstones in soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewelry box.