Guide
Labradorite meaning
Labradorite is a gray-green feldspar that flashes blue, teal, green and gold as it moves. Because of that hidden light, it has come to symbolize transformation, intuition and protection, and it is often given for new beginnings.
Labradorite necklaces
What does labradorite symbolize?
An Inuit legend says the northern lights were once trapped in the rocks of the Labrador coast, and a warrior freed most of them with his spear. The light that stayed behind is labradorite.
From that story comes its meaning: a stone of transformation, intuition and quiet protection, worn through change and given to mark a fresh start. These are traditions and symbolism rather than scientific properties.
Wear the flash
What causes the flash
Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar. Inside it, ultra-thin layers bend and scatter light, so the color appears only at certain angles. Gemologists call this play of color labradorescence. A strand of faceted labradorite catches it from every direction, so the necklace changes as she moves.
It was named after Labrador, Canada, where it was described in the 1770s. It is also found in Finland, where a vivid form is called spectrolite, and in Madagascar.
How to care for labradorite
- Labradorite is 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale: durable, but softer than quartz. Store it apart from harder stones.
- It can get wet briefly, but avoid soaking a beaded necklace or using chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Wipe it with a soft cloth to bring back the flash.
Questions
What does labradorite mean?
Labradorite is a gray-green feldspar that flashes blue, teal, green and gold as it moves. Because of that hidden light, it has come to symbolize transformation, intuition and protection, and it is often given for new beginnings.
What is labradorite?
A plagioclase feldspar known for labradorescence, a flash of blue, green and gold that appears as the stone turns in the light.
Where is labradorite found?
It was named for Labrador, Canada, and is also found in Finland, Madagascar and other countries.
Can labradorite get wet?
A splash will not hurt the stone, but take a labradorite necklace off to swim or shower and never soak it.
Is labradorite the same as moonstone?
No. Both are feldspars with a glow, but moonstone has a soft white or blue sheen, while labradorite flashes vivid blue, teal and green.