Labradorite
Labradorite is a gray feldspar that flashes blue, green and gold as it turns (6-6.5 on Mohs), an effect called labradorescence.
Labradorite is a feldspar that, when moved, shows flashes of blue, green, gold and orange over a gray background. This effect is called labradorescence and is due to internal lamellae that diffract light.
Properties #
- Composition: sodium calcium aluminum silicate (plagioclase)
- Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: dark gray with flashes of blue, green, gold and orange.
- Origins: Canada (Labrador), Madagascar and Finland.
- Treatments: not usually treated.
Uses in jewelry #
Pros and cons #
Advantages #
- A spectacular optical effect.
- Affordable price.
- Every stone is different.
Limitations #
- Splits with a knock because of cleavage.
- The effect depends on angle.
- Needs protection in ring settings.
Care and cleaning #
- Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Avoid knocks and ultrasonic.
- Store apart from hard stones.
See also #
This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
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