Labradorite: Complete Buying Guide, Uses, Meanings, Properties & Facts

Labradorite is known for its stunning colors and iridescent sheen. This complete buying guide will provide you with all the information you need. From understanding its properties and meanings to exploring its various uses, this article will be your go-to resource for everything Labradorite.

Labradorite is a well-liked gemstone famous for its distinctive color play, often shining in blue, green, and gold. It’s ideal for both bold jewelry and regular use. Apart from its attractiveness, Labradorite is believed to possess metaphysical attributes that enhance intuition, stimulate spiritual growth, and repel negativity. 

This article will provide a short, captivating summary of Labradorite’s history and interesting facts, aiding you in understanding whether you’re purchasing it for its aesthetic appeal or potential benefits.

What is Labradorite Crystal?

Labradorite is a feldspar mineral found in igneous rocks, known for its color-changing attribute called labradorescence. This results in color flashes of blue, green, yellow, and sometimes purple and red, making it a desirable gemstone.

The iridescent colors appear to shift as the stone is moved due to its refractive index causing light to bend and reflect differently. The color range can vary based on the stone. Unlike many opals, Labradorite is generally a dark, almost black hue when not in light.

Meaning and Symbolism

Labradorite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and protection. It is believed to have spiritual properties that can enhance one’s psychic abilities and connect them to higher realms of consciousness. 

Labradorite is also said to be a stone of strength and perseverance, providing support during times of change and transition.

Healing Properties – Energy Cleansing and Balancing

Labradorite is believed by many to possess a range of healing properties across various aspects of well-being, including spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical realms. Here’s a breakdown of the perceived healing properties of labradorite in these different aspects:

Emotional Healing

1. Balancing Emotions: Labradorite is said to help balance and stabilize emotions, making it useful for those experiencing emotional fluctuations or mood swings.
2. Confidence Boost: Some individuals use labradorite to boost self-confidence and self-expression, helping them overcome self-doubt and insecurity.
3. Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Labradorite may be used as a calming stone to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being and relaxation.

Spiritual Healing

1. Enhanced Intuition: Labradorite is associated with opening and activating the third eye chakra, which is believed to enhance one’s intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness.
2. Protection: Many believe that labradorite acts as a protective stone, creating a shield against negative energies, psychic attacks, and unwanted spiritual influences.
3. Spiritual Growth: Labradorite is thought to assist in personal and spiritual growth, aiding individuals in their quest for self-discovery and a deeper understanding of their spiritual path.

Mental Healing

1. Clarity of Thought: Labradorite is believed to enhance mental clarity, concentration, and focus, making it a useful stone for those seeking to improve their decision-making abilities.
2. Creativity: It’s thought to stimulate creativity and inspiration, making it a valuable tool for artists, writers, and creative thinkers.
3. Emotional Intelligence: Labradorite is sometimes associated with the development of emotional intelligence, helping individuals better understand and manage their own and others’ emotions.

Physical Healing

1. Pain Relief: It’s believed to alleviate various physical discomforts, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and rheumatism, although scientific evidence for these claims is lacking.
2. Immune System Support: Some practitioners use labradorite for immune system support, although there is no scientific validation of its effectiveness in this regard.

Using labradorite for healing requires an open mind and awareness that results can differ among individuals. If you want to use labradorite, consult a holistic practitioner or crystal healer for advice. Always consult a medical professional for any health issues.

Chakra Association and Balancing

Labradorite is primarily associated with the third eye and crown chakras. The third eye chakra governs intuition, clarity, and spiritual awareness, while the crown chakra represents higher consciousness and spiritual connection.

Labradorite’s energy is believed to stimulate these chakras, promoting spiritual growth, heightened intuition, and mental clarity. It is thought to enhance psychic abilities and aid in accessing higher realms of consciousness. Balancing these chakras may result in a sense of inner peace, spiritual enlightenment, and a connection to higher realms.

It is important to cleanse and recharge your chakra stone in order to maintain its energy and effectiveness. To learn more, you can read our article on labradorite crystal chakra.

Zodiac Connection and Birthstone

Zodiac enthusiasts often associate labradorite with the zodiac signs of Sagittarius and Scorpio, as it is believed to align with their energetic characteristics. 

Labradorite is thought to enhance the intuitive abilities of Scorpios, while it may provide Sagittarians with the focus and determination needed to achieve their goals.

It is crucial to approach such associations with skepticism and seek reliable scientific research for a comprehensive understanding of gemstone properties and their potential effects.

Crystal Pairings and Complementary Gemstones

When considering crystal pairings and complementary gemstones, it is important to explore the energetic and vibrational qualities of different stones to create a harmonious and balanced combination.

Here are three key points to consider when pairing crystals:

1. Clear Quartz: Known as the master healer, this crystal amplifies energy and thought, and can also enhance the properties of labradorite.
2. Amethyst: This crystal is known for its calming properties, which can complement the transformational properties of labradorite.
3. Citrine: Known for its revitalizing energy, citrine can help to boost your motivation and creativity, while labradorite helps with transformation and change.
4. Smoky Quartz: This grounding stone can help to balance the high energy of labradorite, creating a harmonious combination.
5. Black Tourmaline: This protective stone can help to ground and protect you, while labradorite helps with transformation and change.
6. Lepidolite: This stone is known for its calming and soothing properties, which can complement the transformative properties of labradorite.
7. Moonstone: Both labradorite and moonstone have a magical, mystical energy, and can help to enhance your intuition and psychic abilities.
8. Selenite: This stone can help to cleanse and charge your labradorite, enhancing its properties.
9. Rose Quartz: Known for its loving and gentle energy, rose quartz can help to balance the high energy of labradorite.
10. Blue Kyanite: This stone can help to balance the energy of labradorite, and is also known for its ability to align all the chakras.

History and Cultural Significance

Labradorite holds a rich heritage that dates back centuries. It was first discovered in the 1770s in the region of Ylämaa, Finland. It was later named after the Labrador Peninsula due to its resemblance to the colorful northern lights (Aurora Borealis) commonly seen in that region.

The indigenous people of this region believed that labradorite had mystical properties and used it in their spiritual rituals. Over time, labradorite gained popularity in various cultures worldwide.

In Inuit mythology, labradorite is considered a stone of transformation and protection against the Northern Lights. In Hindu mythology, it is associated with the protective energy of Lord Shiva.

Formation and Geological Process

Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar mineral that is formed through a combination of magmatic and metamorphic processes. It typically occurs in igneous rocks, such as basalt and gabbro, and is commonly found in association with other minerals like pyroxene and olivine.

The formation of labradorite begins with the crystallization of magma deep within the Earth’s crust. As the magma cools and solidifies, the labradorite crystals form and grow. Subsequently, during the metamorphic process, the crystals may undergo changes in their mineral composition and structure due to heat and pressure.

These geological processes contribute to the unique properties of labradorite, including its characteristic iridescence or ‘labradorescence’ and its ability to exhibit a range of vibrant colors when light interacts with its internal structure.

Physical Properties and Characteristics

Labradorite is a type of feldspar mineral that is often used in jewelry and decorative items for its unique color play characteristics. Here are some of its physical properties and characteristics:

1. Color: Labradorite is popular for its remarkable play of color, known as labradorescence. The colors can range from blue, green, yellow, orange, red, and sometimes even purple. The base color of labradorite is typically dark (grey, black or dark blue), but it can reflect different colors when light hits it from different angles.
2. Hardness: Labradorite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, which makes it relatively hard and suitable for various types of jewelry.
3. Crystal System: Labradorite has a triclinic crystal system, which means it has three unequal axes that intersect at an oblique angle.
4. Transparency: Labradorite is usually opaque, but can also be translucent in some cases.
5. Luster: Labradorite has a vitreous (glass-like) to pearly luster.
6. Specific Gravity: Labradorite has a specific gravity of approximately 2.68 to 2.72.
7. Cleavage: Labradorite has perfect cleavage in two directions, which means it can break or split easily along these lines.
8. Fracture: It has a characteristic uneven fracture.
9. Streak: The streak of labradorite is usually white.

Please note that the properties can vary depending on the specific piece of labradorite, as it can contain different amounts of other minerals and elements.

Labradorite Buying Guide

When purchasing labradorite, it is also important to consider its transparency, as more transparent specimens tend to exhibit a stronger labradorescence. To help you understand what to look for and consider when purchasing this beautiful gemstone, read our article on the complete buying guide for all types of labradorite crystal with prices.

Labradorite Care and Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity of labradorite, proper care and maintenance practices should be followed.  Read our article for tips to help you take care for all types of labradorite crystal.

Types of Labradorite

Labradorite is a variety of feldspar, and while it primarily exhibits the characteristic play of colors, there are different types and varieties of labradorite based on its origin and appearance. Here are the types of labradorite with their distinguishing features:

1. Rainbow Labradorite is a colorful stone with strong shades of blue, green, yellow, orange, and purple. It is known for its bright, iridescent display.
2. Blue Labradorite, as the name suggests, has a dominant blue color in its play of colors. It often features shades of blue, green, and turquoise, with flashes of other colors.
3. Spectrolite is a unique type of labradorite found in Ylämaa, Finland. It’s recognized for its vibrant and strong color range, often showing a full color spectrum. It’s seen as one of the top-quality labradorites.
4. Black Labradorite is mainly dark-colored, like black or deep gray. Its color variation stands out sharply against the dark base, making it very eye-catching.
5. White Labradorite, also called rainbow moonstone, is a gemstone with a milky white or clear base color and pastel hues. It is commonly used in jewelry due to its unique, dreamy look.
6. Madagascar Labradorite is famous for its bright, colorful display, including deep blues, greens, and purples. This makes it very popular among collectors and jewelers.
7. Mexican Labradorite is another variety known for its exceptional play of colors. It often displays vivid blues, greens, and purples, and it’s favored for its vibrant appearance.
8. Red Labradorite has a blend of red, orange, and yellow hues, giving it a fiery or sunset-like look. However, its red color is not as prominent as in other gems like ruby or garnet.
9. Yellow Labradorite shows different hues of yellow and gold, sometimes mixed with green or blue. These colors can give a sense of warmth and brightness.
10. Purple Labradorite is a purple-toned Labradorite is rare and often mixed with shades of blue or pink.
11. Green Labradorite displays various green hues, from light to dark. It often pairs with blue, giving it a forest-like look.
12. Gray Labradorite is usually gray with a hint of silver and other colors. Its color play is often more subtle than other types of labradorite.
13. Pink labradorite is relatively rare but can display soft pink hues within its play of colors. These pink tones are usually combined with other colors like blue or violet.

Where to Buy Labradorite Online?

There are plenty of places to buy this gem online. From specialty online shops to online giants like Amazon.

Our recommendation is to browse Amazon first to get a sense of prices, variety, and quality. Then do a detailed comparison online. Another specialty retailer is TinyRituals, which only sells gemstones of grade AA or higher.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, labradorite is a unique gemstone that holds significant meaning and symbolism. With its energy cleansing and balancing properties, it is believed to bring harmony and protection to its wearer. Its association with the chakras and zodiac signs further enhances its spiritual qualities.

Labradorite’s formation and physical characteristics make it a fascinating gemstone to study. When buying labradorite, it is important to consider its quality, color, and transparency. With proper care and maintenance, labradorite can retain its beauty and properties for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can labradorite be used in jewelry other than rings and necklaces?

Labradorite can be used in various types of jewelry, including earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Its unique iridescence and color play make it an attractive choice for designers and consumers seeking distinctive pieces.

How does labradorite compare to other gemstones in terms of durability?

Labradorite is relatively durable compared to other gemstones. It has a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still susceptible to scratches and should be handled with care.

Who should wear labradorite?

Labradorite is suggested for individuals prone to stress and anxiety due to its supposed calming and healing qualities. Those looking to enhance their imagination or creativity may also find it beneficial. Its visual appeal may attract some, but anyone who likes it can wear it for its beauty or purported metaphysical attributes.