Where is Labradorite found?
Labradorite (a variety of Feldspar)
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Open the appLabradorite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Labradorite
Labrador, Canada
The original and type locality, where it was first discovered in 1770 by Moravian missionaries. Produces high-quality material.
Finland (Ylämaa)
Known for producing 'Spectrolite,' a variety of labradorite with an exceptionally broad and intense spectrum of colors, including all colors of the rainbow.
Madagascar
A significant source of commercial-grade labradorite, often exhibiting strong blue and green flashes.
Norway
Found in various localities, often associated with anorthosite complexes.
Russia (Kola Peninsula)
Another source of labradorite, particularly in anorthosite massifs.
United States (Oregon, New York)
Oregon produces a variety of plagioclase feldspar known as Oregon Sunstone, which can sometimes exhibit labradorescence in addition to aventurescence. New York has anorthosite occurrences with labradorite.
Australia
Found in some igneous and metamorphic terrains.
Collecting tips
- Look for Mafic Igneous Rocks. Focus your search on areas known for gabbro, basalt flows, and especially anorthosite intrusions, as these are the primary host rocks for labradorite.
- Observe for Labradorescence. The most distinctive feature is the play of colors. Rotate potential samples under natural light to observe the iridescent flashes. Even dull-looking gray rocks can reveal spectacular colors when properly oriented.
- Check Cleavage Planes. Labradorite, like other feldspars, exhibits good cleavage. Look for flat, reflective surfaces that meet at nearly right angles (approximately 86° and 94°). These planes can also help reveal the labradorescence.
- Examine Rock Outcrops. In anorthosite bodies, labradorite can be a major rock-forming mineral, appearing as large, often dark, crystals within the rock mass. Look for areas where the rock has been fractured or weathered to expose fresh surfaces.
- Consider Associated Minerals. In mafic rocks, labradorite is often associated with pyroxenes (like augite) and sometimes olivine or magnetite. Identifying these associated minerals can help confirm the geological environment.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Gray to dark gray with iridescent flashes of blue, green, yellow, etc.
- Luster:
- Vitreous to pearly
- Streak:
- White
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