Labradorite, a captivating member of the feldspar family, is renowned for its stunning play-of-color known as labradorescence. This phenomenon, which mimics the celestial dance of the Aurora Borealis, gives the stone an otherworldly beauty, shifting between cyan, green, gold, and magenta. While not a traditional birthstone, Labradorite has carved out a significant niche in modern birthstone charts, associated with specific months, zodiac signs, and days of the week. Its history is steeped in Inuit legend and early scientific discovery, and its metaphysical properties are prized by those who seek protection and intuition. This article explores the geological formation, gemological properties, historical lore, and modern significance of Labradorite, providing a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
The history of Labradorite is deeply rooted in the rugged coast of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, its geologic type locality and namesake. The region is named for the Portuguese mariner Joāo Fernandes Lavrador, who explored its coast in 1498. The stone itself was formally introduced to Europe in the 18th century. In 1771, Moravian missionary Jens Haven founded the settlement of Nain in northern Labrador. Intrigued by the brightly colored stones displayed by the indigenous Inuit, Haven sent specimens to Europe. These stones became known as “Labrador Stein” in Germany and “Labrador stone” or “firestone” in England.
The Inuit have a rich legend regarding the origin of Labradorite. An ancient Eskimo legend recounts that the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, were once frozen within the rocks of the Labrador coast. An Inuit soldier, using his spear, liberated most of the captured light, setting it free into the sky. This folklore beautifully connects the stone’s internal iridescence to the natural phenomenon it visually emulates.
Scientifically, the first specimens attracted great attention in Europe. In 1780, German geologist Abraham Gottlieb Werner attempted to classify the material. Unable to determine its exact composition, he erroneously described it as a distinct mineral species. It was not until 1820 that researchers identified the mineral as a plagioclase feldspar, a solid solution series between albite (sodium aluminum silicate) and anorthite (calcium aluminum silicate). As the first new mineral reported from what would become Canada, Labradorite holds a significant place in mineralogical history.
Geological Formation and Sources
Labradorite is a common rock-forming mineral, part of the plagioclase feldspar group. It forms in igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and anorthosite. The specific conditions during its crystallization allow for the internal play-of-color, or labradorescence, which occurs due to light interference from alternating layers of different feldspar compositions within the crystal structure.
While its primary and most famous source is the coast of Labrador, Canada, Labradorite is found in various locations worldwide. Sources include Madagascar, which produces a translucent to transparent variety with intense blue schiller, often referred to as “Madagascar Moonstone.” It is also found in Russia, Finland, India, and the United States, specifically in Oregon. The Oregon sunstone is actually a variety of labradorite that exhibits a metallic glittering effect called aventurescence, caused by minute inclusions of copper.
Gemological Properties
Labradorite is classified as a semi-precious gemstone. Its most defining characteristic is its labradorescence, a schiller effect that displays a rainbow of colors. The base color of the stone is typically colorless, white, yellow, or gray, but it is the internal flashes of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet that make it desirable.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of Labradorite as detailed in standard gemological references:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | (Na,Ca)Al(Al,Si)₃O₈ (Plagioclase Feldspar) |
| Crystal Structure | Triclinic |
| Color | Base: Colorless, white, yellow, gray; with flashes of blue, green, yellow, red, orange, violet |
| Luster | Pearly or Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to Opaque |
| Refractive Index | 1.52 - 1.57 |
| Density | 2.68 - 2.72 |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6 - 6.5 |
| Cleavage | Perfect in two directions |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Streak | White |
| Luminescence | May show fluorescence; red in SW-UV, light blue or violet-blue in LW-UV |
| Pleochroism | Present and notable in Oregon labradorite |
Labradorite possesses perfect cleavage in two directions, which makes it somewhat challenging to cut and facet. Care must be taken during the cutting process to avoid breakage along these cleavage planes. Its hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale makes it durable enough for jewelry, though it can be scratched by harder materials.
It is important to distinguish Labradorite from Moonstone. While both are feldspar minerals exhibiting iridescence, they differ in composition and optical effect. Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar, whereas Moonstone is a gem-quality orthoclase feldspar. Furthermore, Labradorite is known for its varied internal iridescence, while Moonstone typically displays a milky, bluish, or white sheen.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Labradorite is widely regarded as a stone of transformation, protection, and mystical power. Metaphysically, it is believed to reveal one’s true destiny and enhance psychic abilities, including intuition and clairvoyance. It is considered a bridge between the conscious and super-conscious mind, promoting deeper knowledge of the inner self.
The stone is often used to shield the aura, protecting the user from negative energies and environmental stresses. It is said to combine the vibrations of both solar and lunar energies, helping individuals develop practical new ideas and innovations while staying grounded. For those who work with crystals, Labradorite is a tool for strengthening intuition and maintaining emotional balance during intense situations.
In the context of birthstones, Labradorite is not a traditional gem but has been adopted by modern interpretations. It is widely cited as an alternative birthstone for November. Some sources also connect it to individuals born in February and March, based on the most frequent colors found in the stone (blue) and the natural birthstone chart. Astrologically, it is associated with several zodiac signs, including Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Libra, Aquarius, and Pisces. Additionally, some traditions view it as a lucky gemstone for individuals born on a Saturday.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its chemical composition and physical properties, Labradorite requires specific care to maintain its integrity and beauty. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5, it is relatively durable but can be scratched by harder gems like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. The most significant vulnerability is its perfect cleavage; sharp blows or impacts can cause the stone to split or chip along these planes.
When cleaning Labradorite, it is best to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the heat and vibrations can cause damage, particularly if the stone has fractures or inclusions. It is also advisable to avoid exposing the stone to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners or cosmetics, which could dull its surface or damage the stone.
For those who use Labradorite for its metaphysical properties, sources suggest cleansing it regularly to refresh and purify it after it has absorbed negative vibrations. This can be done by placing it under running water, smudging it with sage, or leaving it in moonlight.
Conclusion
Labradorite is a gemstone of profound beauty and rich history. From its origins on the icy coasts of Canada, where it was revered by the Inuit and later studied by European scientists, to its modern status as a semi-precious stone prized for its iridescent labradorescence, it remains a favorite among jewelers and collectors. While not a traditional birthstone, its strong associations with the month of November, the zodiac sign of Leo, and the day of Saturday make it a significant alternative in contemporary birthstone lore. Its combination of physical durability, provided it is handled with care to respect its cleavage, and powerful metaphysical symbolism ensures that Labradorite will continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come.