What kind of gemstone is the labradorite?

Labradorite is a very popular choice for gemstone jewelry. This gemstone is actually named after the place where it was discovered in 1770, Labrador, Canada. Nowadays, labradorite is found in Norway and the former USSR as well. In addition, spectrolite, a blue form of labradorite that is almost transparent, is found solely in Finland. Throughout the 18th century, labradorite gained popularity in the gemstone jewelry worn in France and England. In fact, labradorite is considered a semi-precious gemstone (the precious gemstones being: rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and of course diamonds). On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, labradorite comes in at 6 – 6.5, making it a fairly hard and durable gemstone. Hence, labradorite jewelry is easily cared for with jewelry cleaning solutions and jewelry polishing cloths.


The main qualities that make labradorite such a stunning addition to gemstone jewelry are its magnificent color and iridescence. Labradorite is usually silvery gray, yet it does have sparks of the colors green and blue or yellow, orange, and red, depending on the specific gemstone. Labradorite is also reminiscent of the moonstone in its effect, as it resembles a moon in motion and has a high level of iridescence (also known as the schiller effect). The darker forms of labradorite gemstones are even called black moonstones. The iridescence is a result of the light shed from the slim layers of various feldspars that have been separated in the cooling process. In fact, a process very much like the schiller effect takes place when little snow crystals are held in the air in fierce sunlight; the sunlight that falls upon the ice crystals causes a light similar to that of a rainbow. Pieces of labradorite with high iridescence are most often cut as a flat plane.

Regarding its mystic powers, labradorite is believed to affect personal traits like inner strength and self development; it can raise self esteem and enhance creativity and psychic abilities. Labradorite is most recommended gemstone for athletes and procrastinators because it has the power to motivate and push into action. Astrologically, labradorite gemstones are linked to the following signs: Leo, Sagittarius, and Scorpio.

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