Where is Labradorite found?
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
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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. Found in anorthosite intrusions.
Finland
Known for the high-quality variety called Spectrolite, which exhibits a full spectrum of colors. Found in anorthosite and rapakivi granite intrusions.
Norway
Occurs in various igneous and metamorphic rocks, often exhibiting strong labradorescence.
Madagascar
Significant source of gem-quality labradorite, often with vibrant blue and green flashes.
Russia
Found in anorthosite massifs, particularly in the Kola Peninsula.
United States (Oregon)
Oregon Sunstone, a variety of labradorite, is known for its aventurescence (schiller caused by copper inclusions) and can also exhibit labradorescence.
Australia
Occurrences in various igneous rocks.
Mexico
Sources of labradorite with good color play.
Collecting tips
- Look for Mafic Igneous Rocks. Labradorite is most commonly found in dark-colored igneous rocks like gabbro, basalt, norite, and especially anorthosite. Focus your search in areas known for these rock types.
- Observe the Play of Color. The most distinctive feature is labradorescence. Rotate suspected samples under natural light to observe flashes of blue, green, yellow, or other colors. This effect is often best seen on freshly broken surfaces or polished faces.
- Check for Cleavage. Feldspars, including labradorite, exhibit good cleavage. Look for two distinct cleavage planes intersecting at nearly right angles (approximately 94 degrees). Polysynthetic twinning lines may also be visible on cleavage surfaces.
- Consider Associated Minerals. In its typical geological environment, labradorite is often associated with other mafic minerals such as pyroxenes (e.g., augite) and olivine, and sometimes magnetite.
- Examine Rock Outcrops and Glacial Till. Search in bedrock outcrops of anorthosite or gabbro. In glaciated regions, look for distinctive 'float' (loose rocks) in glacial till, as labradorite-bearing rocks can be transported long distances.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Dull gray to black, with iridescent flashes of blue, green, yellow, etc.
- Luster:
- Vitreous to pearly
- Streak:
- White
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