Labradorite
Labradorite — Colour Revealed Through Movement
Labradorite is a stone best appreciated in motion. From one angle it may appear quietly grey; a slight tilt can reveal a flash of blue, green or gold. Its interaction with light gives it an appearance that changes as the jewellery is worn.
Labradorite is known for flashes of blue, green, yellow and gold, and sometimes orange, pink and violet. These colours appear and change with the lighting and viewing angle, against a body that may look grey or dark.
When designing with labradorite, we consider the direction of the colour flash so the setting can display the stone attractively.
Labradorite at a Gemological Glance
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Mineral family | Feldspar, within the plagioclase series |
| Main composition | Sodium-calcium aluminosilicate |
| Series end members | Albite: NaAlSi₃O₈; anorthite: CaAl₂Si₂O₈ |
| Labradorite composition | Approximately 50–70% anorthite, with the remainder albite |
| Flash colours | Blue, green, yellow and gold; sometimes orange, pink and violet |
| Hardness | 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale |
| Refractive index | Approximately 1.555–1.573 |
| Specific gravity | Approximately 2.68–2.72 |
| Characteristic optical effect | Labradorescence — directional flashes of colour |
| Durability | Brittle, with cleavage; sensitive to impact |
Composition varies within the series. These are reference values, rather than measurements of every individual stone.
Where Do the Colour Flashes Come From?
Labradorite showing this effect contains thin internal layers of feldspar with different compositions. Light interacting with these layers produces the colour flashes known as labradorescence. Their thickness and optical properties influence the colours we see.
The same stone can therefore show a striking flash from one direction and a quieter appearance from another. Cutting orientation helps reveal the effect.
Labradorite and Spectrolite
Spectrolite is a trade name associated with Finnish labradorite displaying a rich range of colours. Labradorite from other sources can also show several colours, so appearance alone does not establish Finnish origin.
What Do We Look for When Choosing a Stone?
We consider the strength of the flash, the area it covers and the angles from which it can be seen. Polish quality, fractures and the condition of the edges also matter.
A stone that photographs beautifully from one angle may not suit every design. Viewing it in motion helps us choose jewellery that works with its particular display of light.
Treatments and Identification
A colour flash alone is insufficient to identify the material or establish its condition. Examination considers gemological characteristics and possible evidence of coatings, filling or assembled components. Known treatments are disclosed when describing the stone.
Suitability for Setting
Labradorite can be incorporated into pendants, earrings and rings. For a ring, exposure to impact and protection of the edges deserve particular attention. Its hardness offers some resistance to scratches, while cleavage and brittleness require care during design and setting.
Sources Around the World
Finland is a familiar source of colourful labradorite marketed as spectrolite. Labradorite from other sources can also display rich colours, so the effect alone does not authenticate Finnish origin.
Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning — Beliefs and Traditions
Alchemists, wizards and mystics would use it
because of its mysterious look.
Labradorite helps balance and
cleanse one’s aura. It broadens one’s consciousness and
strengthens one’s ability to contain spiritual information.
It is good to use this gem in processes of healing, communication
with a spirit and reconstruction of past lives.
Labradorite strengthens originality and self-confidence,
helping one to reach and protect his achievements.
It helps maintain balance in times of significant life changes.
It also encourages serenity and equanimity, by removing
bothersome thoughts.
The gem is good for the balance of one’s digestive system and
metabolism.
These meanings belong to the realm of belief and symbolism. They can give jewellery personal significance, but they are not proven gemological properties or a promise of healing, protection or a change in health.
Your Labradorite, in a Piece Created for You
At TzurGems Jewelry & Gemstones, Guy’s gemological knowledge comes together with the craftsmanship of Rafael, an artisan goldsmith. Stone selection and setting design are considered together, giving the colour flashes room within a personal piece that is comfortable to wear.
