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Labradorite Properties, Meaning, Facts and Photos

labradorite rough mineral
Contents

1. What is Labradorite?
2. Labradorite Geological Properties
3. More Labradorite Facts
4. Labradorite Healing Properties
5. Shop Labradorite

What is Labradorite?

Labradorite is a feldspar mineral one of the most abundant group of minerals in Earth's crust.

Although many of these rock forming minerals exhibit iridescence, labradorite and moonstone are best known for this optical phenomenon.

The iridescence is caused by the reflection and scattering of light.  The colours we see are the reflection of light so are not in the stone itself.

The name 'labradorite' comes from the Labrador region of Canada where the stone was first discovered.  In 1770 Czech missionary Father Adolf found a large quantity of strange looking stones on the east shore of the Labrador peninsula.  Although a dull grey colour, with the reflection of light flashes of blue and green could be seen.

Labradorite was later identified as a feldspar mineral containing sodium and calcium.  

Since then it has been found in a number of locations around the world including Australia, Finland, Italy, Norway and Ukraine.

It's extremely common for rocks and minerals to be named after the person who discovered them or the place they were found.  The suffix 'ite' is often used.  Examples include sugilite named after Professor Kenichi Sugi, unakite which took its name from the Unaka Range of mountains in North Carolina and pietersite named after Syd Pieters.

There's even a stone called Englishite.

labradorite polished stone

Labradorite Geological Properties

Labradorite is a fascinating mineral especially when polished.  Although some stones may initially look uninteresting, with the interaction of light they can become quite spectacular.

The finest grade stones exhibit vivid flashes of blue or green colour.  Reds, yellows and greys can also sometimes be seen.

Labradorite crystals are well known for being iridescent.  For this reason the term labradorescence was coined to describe this optical phenomenon.

Alternative words used to describe similar effects in other stones include aventurescence for aventurine, adularescence for moonstone and schiller which is used for labradorite, moonstone and sunstone.

Schiller comes from German but the precise meaning varies depending on the text you read.  We've seen it translated as twinkle, iridescence and colour play which apparently comes from 'schillern'.

The exact meaning of 'schiller' has changed as German has evolved.

Optical phenomena is common in rocks and minerals.  In labradorite it's caused as light is scattered and reflected from beneath the surface of the stone.  Effects can be pretty impressive but capturing colours and sheen in a photograph can be a challenge. 

More Labradorite Facts

Labradorite from the north central coast of Labrador in Canada is some of the finest in the world.  Exceptional grade stone can also be found in Finland specifically Lapland.  This material is better known as spectrolite.

Highly translucent gemstones with fantastic schiller come from southern India.   Material suitable for faceting can be found in Mexico.  Dark grey labradorite comes mostly from Madagascar.

Like most feldspar minerals labradorite is relatively hard but also brittle which can make it difficult to cut.  On Mohs scale of hardness labradorite grades 6 to 6.5.

Labradorite Healing Properties

Labradorite is a stone of transformation.  It offers protection and raises consciousness.

When going through a significant change in the cycle of life labradorite provides strength and perseverance.

It stimulates the third eye chakra, enhances psychic ability, sharpens intuition and acts as a reflective shield to protect the aura from unwanted energy.

Labradorite promotes holistic healing on multiple levels taking into consideration the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of life.

It addresses imbalances and restores optimal energy flow.  It has a soothing effect which can help with anxiety and emotional turmoil. It promotes stability, resilience and a sense of peace and contentment.

The iridescent properties of labradorite spark creativity, enhance imagination and inspire new ideas and artistic expression. It can be used to encourage a flow of inspiration and help overcome creative blocks.

Labradorite supports adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges and change.  This is beneficial because it empowers us to navigate through difficult situations and stages of life with greater ease.

With all the twists and turns that we deal with, the ability to remain resilient allows us to face challenges head-on and find constructive solutions.

Labradorite facilitate a deeper connection to our spiritual self.  It enhances awareness, inner wisdom and a sense of wholeness with the universe.

Before using labradorite or any crystal for the purpose of healing you need to set an intention or specific purpose. This involves focusing your thoughts and directing your energy towards what you hope to achieve or experience.

This helps to create a connection between you and the crystal, aligning your energies towards a common goal.

Stones can be carried, worn or be placed in a space where you spend considerable time.  The idea is to keep the stone's energy in close proximity to your own energy field. This allows for a continuous subtle interaction between you and the stone.

Another way to use crystals for their healing properties is in conjunction with meditation or mindfulness.  A labradorite stone can be held in your hand or placed on or close to a chakra point. 

Its presence is believed to enhance focus, deepen relaxation and facilitate a connection to its specific energies.

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