Labradorite

Information About Labradorite:

This stone is a variety of Feldspar.

Optical properties include a "shiller" effect; prismatic reflections caused by internal inclusions and unusual striations in the crystal structure of the stone.

COMMON GEM COLORS: Clear colors generally vary from red-orange to green appearance, though the true color is gray, with shiller colorplay of blue and green, augmented by iridescent yellow, gold, red, and purple.

HARDNESS ON MOH'S SCALE: 6 to 6.5

SHAPES FOR CUTTING: Traditionally cut and polished to various calibrated and freeform cabochon shapes, faceting of Labradortie has become fashionable in recent years. Suitability for faceting depends on the individual specimen.

This stone may take on a slightly solid-color appearance when faceted, though the colorplay is quite stunning in this form. Polished cabochons sometimes take on a somewhat "rainbow" or opal-like appearance.