Labradorite Sphere Natural Feldspar Gemstone Polished Crystal Flashy Labradorescence

Description

Labradorite Sphere – Natural Feldspar Gemstone with Iridescent Labradorescence

This listing features a beautifully polished Labradorite sphere, hand-selected for its vibrant flashes of colour and exceptional quality. Each sphere displays the signature iridescent effect known as labradorescence, where light interacts with internal structures to produce glowing blues, greens, golds, and occasional violets. The provided photo shows an example of the type and quality of the sphere you will receive, with the 1cm scale cube included to help you judge size accurately.

All of our specimens are 100% genuine and come with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring full confidence in the authenticity and natural origin of your gemstone.

What Is Labradorite? – Geological Classification

Labradorite is a member of the feldspar mineral family, specifically belonging to the plagioclase series rich in calcium and sodium. It is a tectosilicate mineral formed deep within the Earth’s crust, where it crystallises in igneous environments such as basalt, gabbro, norite, and anorthosite.

Its most famous characteristic is the stunning optical effect called labradorescence. This phenomenon occurs when light enters the crystal and reflects off thin, internal lamellar structures formed during the mineral’s slow cooling process. These internal layers diffract light into a brilliant spectrum of colours that shift with movement.

Geological Origin and Formation

Labradorite forms within plutonic and volcanic rocks that cool slowly enough for plagioclase feldspar crystals to develop. During this slow cooling, the feldspar undergoes microscopic exsolution, producing fine internal lamellae. When light hits these internal structures at just the right angles, vivid flashes of colour appear across the surface.

These geological environments are typically associated with ancient tectonic activity, deep magmatic intrusions, and large, coarse-grained rock bodies. Labradorite deposits are found worldwide, especially in regions with long histories of volcanic or intrusive magmatic processes.

Mineral Characteristics and Notable Traits

Labradorite is highly valued for both its scientific interest and its visual beauty. Key features include:

• Labradorescence: Bright, shimmering colour flashes across the polished surface
• Colour Range: Blues, greens, aqua, gold, orange, and occasional violet tones
• Hardness: 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale
• Composition: Plagioclase feldspar (between 50–70% anorthite)
• Texture: Smooth, high-gloss polished finish ideal for display
• Origin: Typically found in igneous environments rich in calcium-bearing feldspar
• The spherical cut allows the optical effect to be admired from multiple angles, making each turn of the sphere reveal new flashes of colour.

Scientific and Cultural Interest

Labradorite has been admired for centuries for its unusual visual qualities. Its name comes from the Labrador Peninsula in Canada, where it was first identified in the 18th century. Since then, it has become a favourite among collectors, gem enthusiasts, and lapidary artisans.

Its unique optical behaviour continues to attract attention from geologists and mineralogists who study feldspar exsolution, light diffraction, and iridescent mineral structures.

A Standout Piece for Collectors and Display

Each Labradorite sphere is chosen for its strong colour play, high-quality polish, and captivating natural structure. Every sphere exhibits its own pattern of flashes and hues, making each piece one-of-a-kind and visually dynamic.

Whether displayed in a mineral collection, used as a décor feature, or given as a thoughtful gift, a Labradorite sphere is an exceptional example of Earth’s geological artistry. Your specimen will be carefully selected, securely packaged, and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity to ensure complete satisfaction.