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Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Gemstone of the Day: Labradorite


One of my Labradorite designs, Smooth Operator, is shown above using a faceted pear shaped birolette. To view this item and other at my ETSY please click on the above picture.


Labradorite is the umbrella term for a sodium-rich variety of plagioclase feldspar found in igneous or metamorphic rocks. When light hits labradorite from a particular direction, it can display striking rainbow-colored reflections (violet, blue, green, yellow, orange and red) known as labradorescence or schiller. Labradorite has been described as looking like gasoline lying on water or the delicate wings of a tropical butterfly. It is in the same family as moonstone. Stones with a light green-gray base and moderate schiller are known simply as labradorite.


Labradorite was officially discovered on St. Paul Island in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. However, pieces of the gemstone also have been found among Native American artifacts in Maine. During the 18th century, labradorite was frequently used in jewelry in France and England. Labradorite is said to detoxify the body and slow the aging process. It also is believed to elevate consciousness and protect a person's aura, helping to keep the aura clear, balanced, protected and free from energy leaks. Many say the stone heals mental confusion and indecision. Labradorite is found in Labrador (Canada), Madagascar, the Ukraine, Australia, Mexico, Norway and the U.S.A.
*Data in the above posting is cited from Rings-N-Things at www.rings-things.com*

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