Metaphysical guide of Labradorite, Physical properties of Labradorite

 

Labradorite ((Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8), a feldspar mineral, is an intermediate to calcic member of the plagioclase series. It has an anorthite percentage (%An) of between 50 and 70. The specific gravity ranges from 2.71 to 2.74. The streak is white, like most silicates. The refractive index ranges from 1.555 to 1.575. Twinning is common. As with all plagioclase members the crystal system is triclinic and three directions of cleavage are present two of which form nearly right angle prisms. It occurs as clear, white to gray, blocky to lath shaped grains in common mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro, as well as in anorthosites.

The geological type area for labradorite is Paul's Island near the town of Nain in Labrador, Canada. It has also been reported in Norway and various other locations worldwide.

It occurs in large crystal masses in anorthosite and shows a play of colors called labradorescence. The labradorescence, or schiller effect, is the result of light refracting within lamellar intergrowths resulting from phase exsolution on cooling in the Boggild miscibility gap, An48-An58.

Gemstone varieties of labradorite exhibiting a high degree of labradorescence are called spectrolite; moonstone and sunstone are also commonly used terms, and high-quality samples with good qualities are desired for jewelry.


Physical properties of Labradorite:

Color: Gray, Green Gray, Black with colorful shillers most often in golds, greens, blues and violets
Location: Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Madagascar, Norway, Russia, UK, Ukraine, USA
Rarity: Common
Fun Fact: Finnish Labradorite exhibits uniquely vivid colors of bright aqua, golden yellow, peacock blue, reddish orange, greens and red and is called Spectrolite. The Finnish "Stone of Light" was given the name Spectrolite by Professor Aarne Laitakari, who through the name, wanted to convey the colours of the Finnish Nature of various seasons.
Stone Type/Family: A member of the Feldspar family, Silicates Class
Crystal System: Triclinic
Chemical Composition: Ca(50-70%) Na(50-30%) (Al, Si)AlSi2 O8, Calcium sodium aluminum silicate
Hardness: 6-6.5
Category: Feldspar, Tectosilicate
Chemical formula: (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8, where Ca/(Ca + Na) (% Anorthite) is between 50%-70%
Crystal system: Triclinic
Twinning: Common
Cleavage: Three directions
Streak: White
Specific gravity: 2.71 to 2.74
Refractive index: 1.555 to 1.575
Other characteristics: Labradorescence

Labradorite is a stone of transformation and change. Labradorite enhances strength of will and feelings of inner worth. It is useful for bringing up and healing old memories, including past life issues. Labradorite can also help prepare the body and soul for ascension.

Labradorite can aid in communicating with our highest self and with the creator. It helps to assists when facing and navigating all types of changes and challenges, attracting strength and perseverance. Labradorite is one of the best stones to use when dealing with any type of addiction or to break unhealthy (physical, mental, etc) habits.