Where is Labradorite found?
Labradorite (a variety of plagioclase 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. Large deposits of anorthosite containing labradorite are found here.
Finland
Known for producing a high-quality variety called Spectrolite, which exhibits a full spectrum of colors. Found in anorthosite intrusions.
Madagascar
Significant source of gem-quality labradorite, often with strong labradorescence.
Norway
Occurrences in various igneous and metamorphic settings.
Russia
Deposits found in the Ural Mountains and other regions.
United States
Found in various states, including Oregon (often with aventurescence, sometimes called Oregon Sunstone), New York (Adirondack Mountains anorthosite), and others.
Australia
Occurrences in igneous rocks.
Collecting tips
- Look in Mafic Igneous Rocks. Focus your search on areas with known occurrences of anorthosite, gabbro, and basalt. Labradorite is a primary constituent of these rock types.
- Examine Cleavage Surfaces. The characteristic labradorescence is best observed on freshly broken or polished surfaces. Look for the iridescent play of colors when rotating the sample under a light source.
- Check for Polysynthetic Twinning. Fine parallel striations (twinning lamellae) on cleavage surfaces are a strong indicator of plagioclase feldspar, including labradorite.
- Consider Associated Minerals. Labradorite often co-occurs with pyroxenes (e.g., augite), olivine, and magnetite in mafic igneous rocks.
- Safety Precautions. Labradorite itself is not hazardous. However, when collecting in the field, always wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection) and be aware of your surroundings, especially in quarry or outcrop environments. Avoid inhaling dust if cutting or grinding samples, as fine silica dust can be a respiratory irritant.
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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