Did you know that the Labradorescence effect is the reason this stone is called Labradorite gemstone? Also, the name derives from the Canadian province of Labrador, which is the site of the gem's initial discovery and where it is most commonly found. Ancient and Latin Greek are further possible origins of the suffix.
Labradorite is a mesmerizing feldspar mineral known for its striking play of colors, often displaying shades of blue, green, yellow, gold, and gray. Its chemical composition is (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)₄O₈, reflecting its complex structure.
With a refractive index ranging from 1.56 to 1.58 and a birefringence of 0.010 to 0.020, labradorite exhibits unique optical properties that enhance its visual appeal.
The mineral has a specific gravity between 2.68 and 2.72, making it relatively lightweight compared to other gemstones. On the Mohs hardness scale, labradorite ranks between 6 and 6.5, offering moderate durability suitable for various jewelry applications.
The stone gets its name from the place where it was found - Labrador, a Canadian region. It was once called ‘Fire Stone’ by Inuits and was used in powdered form to cure wounds and ailments.
The Labradorite properties are believed to bring peace and happiness to your lives as they have a calming effect. The Labradorite cost per gram is influenced by its scarcity and the demand for this extraterrestrial gem.
According to legends, a warrior saw magnificent Northern Lights in some rocks and struck the rock with his spear to free up some lights.
It was first introduced in European markets by Moravian missionaries. Since it was discovered, it has been highly desired and valued.
The winter winds of Finland and the former Tsar kingdoms of Russia also distinguish Labradorite, according to yet another minor discovery, which means it is not simply a bit off Canada.
The stone was given the name Spectrolite in this nation because it seemed to have every hue in the rainbow. People have always adored it, no matter what they call it.
Labradorite with its Labradorescence effect, as discussed above, is found in tubular and thin nature. While mostly it is found in colors gray and white, some labradorites might also exhibit hues of brown, green, yellow, and blue.
The labradorite gemstone has a pearly luster effect to it with many pieces exhibiting a 'schiller effect'. Due to this effect, when the stone interacts with light, the lustrous effect, missed with vibrant colors is revealed by them.
Paul's Island near the Canadian Labrador town of Nain is the geological type location for labradorite stone. Finland, Norway, and Poland have also seen a bit of this gem with Australia, Madagascar, Slovakia, China, and the United States with the highest distribution.
The gemstone feldspar mineral laboratorye is inculcated in the triclinic crystal system. Available in white, gray and clear forms as well as a wide range of sizes and forms, these are.
'Labradorescence' describes these stones, which reflect only certain colors because of interior structure and light refraction.
The months of February and March are linked to the amazing Feldspar mineral of Labradorite. This would make the Pisces zodiac sign, the sign of this great gemstone. Although opinions differ as to whether the Labradorite is also meant for Libras and Leos. Malachite’s bold, swirling patterns make it a favorite among collectors and designers.
Pisces have mystical personalities and traits which link them to this stone. The water signs have a special place to dive deep into their feelings and thoughts, so they require a gemstone that provides their lives with balance.
Pisceans are a little wild, empathetic, romantic, and impressionable. The amazing Labradorite properties will bring them a gentle reminder of letting things go and learning to move on.
Labradorite is also a famous stone for Sagittarius, offering them curiosity and intuition for better exploration. The Labradorite healing properties help Sagittarians begin their journey of life with an open mind and heart.
Being a mild stone, it could be worn on anybody’s skin. This stone belongs to anyone, regardless of the zodiac sign and horoscope you represent, who wants to remove negative energy.
Many labradorite healing properties and labradorite benefits can create a huge positive impact on anyone’s life.
There are many ways and methods to clean and charge labradorite stone and other stones like Moldavite and Kyanite.
For these reasons, Labradorite is widely sold as the ‘Stone of Magic’, because of its labradorescence (optical brilliance of blue, green, gold, or purple hues).
Just like Labradorite, the principle work of this phenomenon is related to transformation and protection transition.
People who know they want to improve their mental experience and become more self-aware are told to get a labradorite cabochon.
Thinkers, healers, meditators, and people who work in the psychic field love this stone because it boosts psychic abilities, insight, and spirit clarity.
When learning about Labradorite, people are most drawn to its unique optical feature, coordinating with the phenomenon called labradorescence, which resembles levitation.
Labradorite, as Inuit mythology for instance tells, was born when the Aurora, the Northern lights were captured in the rock.
One of the warriors hit the rock with the spear, sending some of the lights flying up to the sky, Locking the remaining lights inside the gemstone.
This myth just perfectly associates labradorite with the enchanted brilliant shimmer.
Labradorite is a member of plagioclase feldspar, a range of silicate minerals.
It results from the interaction of light reflected within layers of the mineral, in addition to its labradorescence.
Labradorite in the plane of metaphysics, is regarded as a stone with change and agility of spirit and perception.
It is said to offer spiritual perception, fend off evils, and also build up spirit stamina.
In most cases, labradorite gives blue and green reflections but another form of the gem known as spectrolite gives a full range of colors ranging from red to purple, and orange.
Spectrolite is primarily sourced from Finland but the one is considered more valuable because of the vibrantly colored display.
Labradorite was also used by shamans and healers in their practice in distant times.
The surface was speculated to open up a different world and was widely used in séances as well as in prayers.
A Stone of the Heavens
In Scandinavian folklore, labradorite was believed to have descended from the frozen fires of the Aurora Borealis, symbolizing divine protection and celestial origin. Seafarers often carried it for safe journeys.
The Stone of the Shaman
Labradorite was an honored stone of the ancient tribal cultures for its use as a bridge between physical and spiritual worlds.
Shamans would use it to enter other realms, find divine guidance and reach the wisdom of the ancestors.
A Gem of Magic and Transformation
Labradorite was born in Celtic mythology as one linked to the Druids who believed that it gifted magical powers that would help to unlock hidden talents; aid in the development of intuition and shield you from negative forces.
Guardian of the Stars
Indigenous tales described labradorites as fragments of fallen stars, serving as celestial protectors and connecting the wearer to cosmic energies.
The Fire Within
In Indian mythology, labradorite was thought to hold sacred fire, representing inner strength and transformation, igniting one’s latent potential.
A wondrous play-of-color and unique optical peculiarities add to the versatility of Labradorite as jewelry for a wide range of shapes and cuts.
Oval Cabochon: The classic cabochon cut with a smooth, rounded surface is ideal for highlighting labradorite’s iridescence. Oval shapes are popular for pendants and rings.
Freeform Shapes: Freeform cuts preserve the natural look of labradorite while showcasing its unique color patterns, making them perfect for artistic jewelry designs.
Elegant Teardrop (Pear) Cabochon: This teardrop (pear) cabochon is great for earrings or pendants and works nicely to give a graceful touch to jewelry spaced throughout
Round Cabochons: Provides an evenly divided play-of-color, perfect for rings and studs. Labradore’s play of color is distributed in round cut shapes and cuts. Here are the most popular ones that enhance its natural beauty.
Gemstone Labradorite is loved for its mesmarizing playof color but there is something about them that make them feel like nature.
Labradorite has plus come into greater scrutiny, especially within gemstone industry, as the public becomes more familiar with ethics and environmental sustainability.
Sources:
The Labradorite is mined from Canada (Labrador), Finland, Madagascar, Russia, and Mexico.
Finland is the world known for its spectrolite labradorite, a variety that displays a vibrant full spectrum of colors.
Increasing efforts have been made in recent years towards promoting ethical mining practices in labradorite-rich areas. These practices focus on:
Minimizing Environmental Impact: Preserving local ecosystems by using low-impact mining methods.
Fair Labor Practices: To make sure miners have safe work and fair wages.
Transparency in Supply Chains: It gives buyers information about the gemstone’s origin and mining conditions.
If unregulated mining operations can destroy habitat, soil erosion, and water contamination.
Some informal mining might not be overseen, with risks to both the environment and the local communities.
To combat these challenges, several organizations and companies emphasize:
Certified Ethical Sources: Being a partner with suppliers that meet international ethical mining standards.
Community Engagement: Educating, healthcare, and infrastructure development that supports local communities.
Rehabilitation Programs: The improvement of mined land to its natural state after extraction.
Labradorite is valuable, depending on a combination of visual appeal and physical properties and supply and demand. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that determine the worth of this enchanting gemstone:
Origin and Type
Finland (Spectrolite) and Canada are examples of great colors being seen in only some places which are then held in higher regard as a more valuable labradorite. Collectors and jewelry makers prize the full spectrum color play found in spectrolite.
Market Trends and Demand
Metaphysical circles love the fact that Labradorite is a stone of transformation and intuition, driving much of the demand. Collector's of these unique pieces flock after rare color combinations which in turn causes the market value to increase.
Clarity and Surface Quality
This one is high quality transparent to opaque and has a smooth smooth polished surface that makes it visually attractive.
The labradorescence, that is, the way these stones sparkle due to their internal mica, is destroyed by inclusions, cracks or blemishes, making more valuable stones than that.
Color Base
Labradorite bodies vary from gray to black and some may have a glassy white or greenish base. Dark bases seem to create a stronger contrast with the play-of-color making them better stones.
What is a labradorite good for?
Labradorite is said to increase intuition, protect and help one grow spiritually. The belief is also that it strengthens the aura and helps creativity.
Where to find labradorite?
Labaorite is primarily mined in Canada, Madagascar, Finland and Russia from volcanic rocks.
The charge of labradorite gemstone.
Wherever I can, I charge the labradorite under moonlight, preferably under a full moon, or through using a natural source like selenite to cleanse and recharge its energy.
Is labradorite an expensive gem?
High quality stones with vibrant color play can go for hundreds of dollars, or even $200 per carat, more than most labradorite, but are generally affordable.
Is labradorite safe in water?
Labradorite is water proof, but it doesn't like continuous spraying of water, which can make it weak.