Labradorite gemstones emulate the iridescent pattern of a butterfly’s wing, and the ethereal wash of colors in the aurora borealis. It is legend that ancient inhabitants of the Labrador shoreline in Canada believed that labradorite was the frozen fire of the aurora borealis itself. Although legend says that ancient civilization discovered labradorite, it wasn’t until it was officially discovered by a Moravian missionary off the coast of Labrador Canada around 1770 that it was recognized for its potential as a gemstone.
Labradorite belongs to the feldspar mineral group and is cherished for its remarkable play of color. Labradorite is the owner of an optical phenomenon or schiller (German for shining or twinkle) called labradorescence. Because labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar, it can form microscopic layers of other feldspars, and when light strikes these layers and the light rays interfere with one another, it creates bands of shimmering spectral colors. Labradorescnece visually displays vivid flashes of (mostly) blue and green, but also gold, orange, red, and sometimes violet. These areas of color change places depending on the viewing angle, comparably to the play of color in an opal.
All labradorite which displays labradorescence is beautifully unique as a gemstone, no two pieces will have exactly the same patterns and flashes of color. It makes an exceptional collectable in a loose mineral collection, or as a wearable piece of jewelry. Labradorite supplies are plentiful, so its wild beauty is very available and affordable to the market.
Metaphysically, since labradorite can display all spectral colors, it unites all chakras. Labradorite often predominantly shines blue, so it also strongly stimulates the throat chakra. Traditional Hindu belief systems also say labradorite relates to the throat chakra, ‘vishuddha.’ The throat chakra acts as the voice and purification center of the body. When the throat chakra is closed or unbalanced, it affects the state of all other chakras. When it is open and balanced, it allows for the purest communication and expression within platonic relationships, romantic relationships, and within workplace or professional relationships. Wearing labradorite around your neck, close to the throat chakra, in the form of a pendant or necklace is a great way to bring about its communicative properties, especially if the piece of labradorite has mostly deep blue hues.
Labradorite is also a stone of transformation and change. It is a great guide for large life decisions and transitions because it enhances strength of will and inner value. Keeping a labradorite palm stone in one’s pocket, or in one’s bag can allow labradorite to assist you through personal growth and transition. As a workplace stone, it tends to bring out the best in people. Keeping a piece of labradorite with you when you transition jobs or having a piece on a desk at work can assist in cultivating a pleasant work space.
Labradorite is both visually and metaphysically magical, mystical, and mesmerizing. It would make a great addition to any jewelry or mineral collection.