What is labradorite?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral first collected on the Labrador coast of Canada, and it is prized in jewellery for an optical effect called labradorescence, where the stone flashes electric blues, greens, golds and sometimes violet as you move it through the light. The base colour ranges from grey to green-grey, and the iridescence appears to come from within rather than sitting on the surface, caused by light scattering between thin layers inside the stone. It is widely used in cabochons, pendants and statement rings.
Frequently asked questions
- What colour is labradorite?
- The body of the stone is typically a dark grey-green, but the flash of colour it shows, called labradorescence, can range from deep blue and teal to gold, green and occasionally violet or red. The intensity and colour range vary from stone to stone.
- What does labradorite symbolise?
- Labradorite is often linked with transformation, intuition and protection against negative energy. Its dramatic colour play has led many cultures to connect it with the Northern Lights and with magic, and it is considered a stone of mystery and inner strength.
- Is labradorite good for everyday jewellery?
- It is reasonably durable with a hardness of around 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits pendants and earrings well. For rings worn daily it is worth choosing a protective setting and removing the piece before heavy work, as it can chip if struck hard.
Designing a ring
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