Labradorite
Labradorite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with notable Chinese occurrences.
About Labradorite
Labradorite belongs to the silicate class in the plagioclase feldspar group and has the chemical formula (Ca,Na)[Al(Al,Si)Si2O8]. It crystallizes in the triclinic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market. Its combination of structural character and global distribution make it a recognized species in both systematic and aesthetic collections.
Identification & care
Crystals commonly develop as tabular, massive; rare distinct crystals; polysynthetic twinning (albite law and pericline law produce characteristic striations). Its color range is broad, including grey, white, dark grey, labradorescence: spectral blue, green, gold, orange, red, and violet iridescence on cleavage planes. The luster is vitreous, sub-vitreous, the streak is white, and specimens range from translucent to opaque. The cleavage is perfect on {001}, good on {010} — feldspar cleavage. The fracture is uneven, conchoidal, which aids identification.
Collector context
How it forms
In terms of geology, Labradorite forms in intermediate to mafic igneous rocks (anorthosite, gabbro, norite, basalt); some metamorphic rocks; widespread rock-forming mineral. It is commonly found in association with pyroxene (augite), olivine, ilmenite, magnetite, hypersthene, hornblende.
Classic Chinese localities
Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Bayan Obo deposit, among others.
Why collectors care
Collectors pursue Labradorite for the clarity of its crystal form and, in good material, saturated color that reads instantly across a display case. A well-terminated labradorite on clean matrix photographs well, identifies quickly, and anchors a cabinet piece. Top Chinese specimens over the last two decades have reset the bar for what labradorite looks like at collector grade.
What affects value
Value in Labradorite is assessed, in typical order of weight, against: (1) locality provenance; (2) size relative to the species norm; (3) crystal form and termination sharpness; (4) color saturation and zoning; (5) transparency and internal clarity; (6) matrix quality and aesthetic balance; (7) condition (absence of damage, chips, or repair). Cleaning quality and verified locality documentation act as multipliers across the above.
Naming history
The name Labradorite has a specific etymological and historical context — see Mindat's reference entry for provenance details. We have retained naming data at the record level; published prose is paraphrased from factual fields rather than copied from source.