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Labradorite
Labradorite is a popular gemstone composed of sodium calcium aluminum silicate. [1]
Labradorite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Labradorite:- Transparency: Labradorite can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, labradorite is triclinic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, labradorite can be pearly or vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Labradorite streaks white.
- Hardness: Labradorite's hardness ranges from 6 to 6.5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Labradorite's specific gravity ranges from 2.69 to 2.72.
Labradorite: Background and Summary
Labradorite is a mineral that belongs to the plagioclase feldspar group. It is a popular gemstone that displays a unique iridescence, also known as labradorescence. This optical effect is caused by light reflecting off internal structures within the stone. Labradorite is found in a variety of colors, ranging from grayish-white to green, blue, and even purple. It is often used in jewelry and decorative objects due to its striking appearance.One way to identify labradorite is by its iridescence. When viewed from different angles, the stone will display flashes of color that seem to move across its surface. Labradorite also has a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively durable but can still be scratched by harder materials. Additionally, labradorite has a specific gravity of 2.68-2.72, which is slightly higher than other feldspars.
Labradorite has a number of uses beyond its use as a gemstone. It is often used in the construction industry as a decorative stone for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding. Labradorite is also used in the production of ceramic glazes and as a flux in the manufacturing of glass. In addition, labradorite is sometimes used in spiritual and healing practices, where it is believed to have properties that can help with anxiety, stress, and other emotional issues.
Labradorite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Labradorite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent, opaque |
| Chemical Formula | (Na,Ca)1-2Si3-2O8 |
| Chemical Composition | sodium calcium aluminum silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.69, 2.72 |
| Hardness | 6, 6.5 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | triclinic |
| Refractive Index | 1.56, 1.572 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: green sometimes: red, gray, colorless less common: blue, pale, black, brown, white, purple, yellow, multicolor |
| Category | tectosilicate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.008-0.010 |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Labradorite: FAQ
Q: Is labradorite a rare mineral?A: Labradorite is not necessarily rare, but high-quality specimens with strong labradorescence can be relatively uncommon.
Q: Where is labradorite found?
A: Labradorite is found in many locations around the world, including Canada, Madagascar, Norway, Russia, and the United States.
Q: Can labradorite be cut into different shapes for jewelry?
A: Yes, labradorite can be cut into a variety of shapes and sizes, including cabochons, beads, and faceted stones.
Sources
- "Labradorite." Mindat.org. https://www.mindat.org/min-2306.html- "Labradorite." Geology.com. https://geology.com/gemstones/labradorite/
- Labradorite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labradorite
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