Shape shifting iridescence
LABRADORITE
Labradorite Origin & Physical Properties
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral, part of the family of tectosilicate minerals that make up 41% of the earth’s continental crusts. Labradorite is a sodium calcium aluminum silicate with unusual optical properties. Labradorescence is a shimmering iridescent optical effect which creates beautiful metallic color flashes when the stone is struck by light from different angles. This schiller effect is created by submicroscopic layers of black magnetite and/or ilmenite that reflect and reflect light as it passes through the stone. These layers are generally aligned in a signal direction, which is why when labradorite is viewed from different angles, its labradorescence shifts dramatically.
Labradorite’s color flashes can range from blue, to green, yellow, red, and orange. Its overall internal color when viewed perpendicular to the reflective layers is usually a smokey gray. The more dramatic its iridescent shimmering effects, the higher it is valued, with blue-fire Labradorite from Madagascar being particularly popular in the gem world.
The name is derived from the Labrador Peninsula, located in Newfoundland, Canada where it was first discovered on the Isle of Paul in 1770. Today, the most important localities for Labradorite rough are in Madagascar, Australia, and India. There is a special type of Labradorite called Spectrolite which comes exclusively from Finland which has intense metallic schiller that is highly sought after.
| Category | Properties |
|---|---|
Chemical Composition |
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8 |
Mohs Hardness |
5 - 6.5 |
Luster |
Vitreous to pearly on cleavages |
Specific Gravity |
2.68 to 2.72 |
Refractive Index |
1.56 – 1.568 |
Fluorescence |
Red |
Crystal System |
Triclinic |
Diaphaneity |
Transparent to translucent |
Color |
Gray, blue, brown, green, yellow, purple, black |
Origin |
Canada, Russia, Australia, Mexico, USA, Madagascar |
Chakra |
Throat (5th) |
Zodiac |
Leo, Scorpio and Sagittarius |
Element |
Water |
Metaphysical Effects |
Clairvoyance, communication with higher guides, depression, |
Labradorite Healing & Metaphysical Properties
Labradorite has seen an explosion in popularity over the last decade, in no small part due to its powerful metaphysical properties and high quality gem rough coming out of Madagascar. Labradorite is a shape-shifting gemstone in every sense, both visually and metaphysically. It is a gem of the night, connected to the starry sky, the shimmering light of the moon and the magical mysteries hidden in our deepest subconscious.
Labradorite is incredibly protective, acting as a reflective shield against negativity and creating a safe space where one can explore the inner world of our dreams, subconscious and the magical realms. It is an excellent stone for self-discovery and tuning into the subtle spirit world.
Labradorite can enhance psychic and intuitive abilities, encouraging the subtle senses to become more in tune and sensitive. Use Labradorite in crystal layouts and meditation by placing it on your third-eye or throat chakra, depending on the effects that you want to stimulate. Meditating with Labradorite is highly effective when one focuses on the expansive night sky in you inner vision, imagine the timeless wonder of our universe as you find your center.
Labradorite History & Mythology
In the myths of the Inuits and other native tribes of the North, Labradorite were stones that had the light of the Aurora Borealis trapped within them. These rocks could be found along the rocky coast of the northern shores. One day, an elder ancestor struck one of these rocks with his spear. The rock shattered into many pieces and the light was liberated, where it flew out into the night sky. Some of the light remained trapped in the rocks and the ancient tribes called them ‘fire stones’.
Artifacts dating back over a millennia were found in Maine, where Algonquin tribes used them as medicine stones and protective amulets. Labradorite is considered to be a ‘warrior stone’, and has been used for protection and guidance since the ancient native tribes ruled the northern lands.