Labradorite
A beautiful plagioclase feldspar discovered in 1770 along the coast of Labrador, Canada, known for emitting an iridescent flash. The repetition of thin layers of metallic minerals parallel to specific faces of the crystal creates an iridescent effect known as labradorescence.
The beautiful shimmer of Labradorite
Basic Information
| English Name | Labradorite |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | Sokai-chouseki (Labradorite) |
| Chemical Formula | (Ca[Al₂Si₂O₈])₅₀₋₇₀+(Na[AlSi₃O₈])₅₀₋₃₀ |
| System | Triclinic |
| Hardness | 6–6.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.70 |
Features & Varieties
- Spectrolite: A name permitted only for those from Ylämaa, Finland. These feature a black base color with more vibrant iridescence.
- Cat's-eye Labradorite: Displays a cat's-eye effect due to the needle-like inclusions aligned in a specific direction.
Origin, Synonyms, Treatment, and Similar Stones
Synonyms:
Treatment: Impregnation is sometimes performed.
Similar Stones: Larvikite: A type of alkali monzonite found in Larvik, Norway.