Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar that emits a purple and blue fire or labradorescence (schiller) when the light hits it. Labradorite can be identified by its labradorescence, or schiller effect iridescence. This means that it exhibits a brilliant play of color, often appearing as a blue or green sheen, or as a whole spectrum of colors, known as labradorescence. This is caused by the diffraction of light in the layers of rock. Labradorite can also show adularescence, which is a white or bluish light seen when the stone is turned. Named for Labrador Island in Canada the first place it was discoved. Mined in Canada, Madagascar, the Ukraine, Australia, Mexico, Norway and the U.S.A. Mohs hardness 6.
There are three further types of labradorite; spectrolite, andesine-labradorite and rainbow moonstone. Rainbow moonstone comes from Madagascar and it has an intense blue schiller. Spectrolite is a rare labradorite from Finland known for displaying a beautiful spectral play of color. Andesine-labradorite is created by enhancing the color of labradorite.
No comments:
Post a Comment