Said to hold the Northern Lights in its mysterious depths, labradorite is a unique crystal that makes the ordinary extraordinary. It is prized by healers, shamans, and gem collectors alike and is said to help one connect with magical realms. Labradorite is one of the most interesting stones in the mineral kingdom, and its physical properties are as amazing as the lore that surrounds it.
A member of the feldspar family, this crystal is easily identified by the play of color that it displays, which is known as labradorescence. The stone is typically dark gray, black, or grayish-green, but its layers refract light as brilliant flashes of gold, red, copper, blue, and sometimes purple. Peacock blue is typically the most predominant color, while stones that display flashes of purple are the rarest and most sought after.
Labradorite History
According to legend, the lights of the Aurora Borealis were once trapped inside the rocks along the Canadian coast until they were freed by a brave warrior who broke the rocks with a spear. The rocks that he did not hit are said to still contain the Northern Lights within their depths.
Despite lore and legends that date back much further, labradorite was not officially identified by geologists in the 1770s. It was given its name because of the location in which it was first formally identified – Labrador, Newfoundland, in northeastern Canada. While some specimens of labradorite still come from Labrador, stunning specimens have also been found in several other places, including Finland, Russia, and Madagascar.
During the 18th century, labradorite was an extremely popular gemstone for jewelry in England and France. It was also widely used for decorative purposes and carving during this time period. It became a popular stone among missionaries upon its discovery and remains popular in spiritual and metaphysical communities.
Labradorite Physical Properties
Labradorite is a type of feldspar mineral that most often occurs in certain types of igneous rocks, including gabbro, basalt, and norite. It is also sometimes present as the most abundant mineral in anorthosite. Many specimens display a schiller effect that presents in vibrant shades of iridescent blue, red, orange, green, and yellow. Labradorite is so well known for this particular display that the phenomenon is known as “labradorescence.” This occurs when light enters a stone and reflects off of a twinning stone inside it. The flash that is observed comes from the color of the light that reflects off the twinning surface. When there are different twinning surfaces within a crystal, it results in the reflection of different colors of light. This results in the multi-colored appearance of many labradorite specimens.
With a rating that ranges between 6 and 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it relatively hard but still scratchable by many other minerals. Its overall durability, however, does make it appropriate for daily wear, carrying, home décor, etc. Anorthosite contains a high concentration of labradorite and is often cut and polished for use as an architectural stone. It is widely used as facing stone, countertops, windowsills, and tiles and creates a beautiful glittering effect in natural and artificial light.
Labradorite Metaphysical Properties
Labradorite is believed to help one expand their spiritual awareness. This mystical stone is also held in high regard as one of the power powerful protectors in the entire mineral kingdom. It is said to shield the aura and strengthen one’s natural energies. It also blocks out negativity and keeps one safe from the woes and misfortunes of the physical world. It also provides protection as one explores higher planes or searches for visions from the past or future.
In metaphysical communities, the meaning of labradorite runs deep. It creates a pathway between the physical realm and the heavens and can facilitate communication with the unknown. It can help awaken one’s spiritual abilities and enable them to explore the deepest levels of consciousness. It spurs creativity and opens one up to a world where anything is possible. In many ways, working with labradorite is much like going down the proverbial rabbit hole, and that is a wonderful and awe-inspiring thing!
Labradorite Healing Properties
As a physical healing crystal, labradorite is said to benefit the lungs. As such, healers often use it to treat colds, bronchitis, and a wide range of problems that affect the respiratory system. It also aids in digestion, metabolism, and regulation. It has also been used to treat disorders involving the eyes and the brain. It eases the symptoms of PMS, soothes pain, lowers blood pressure, and alleviates gout and rheumatism.
Emotionally, labradorite is believed to slow down an overactive mind and lower anxiety and stress. It eliminates negative emotions and replaces them with a spark of joy and a plethora of new ideas. It stimulates one’s imagination and can help bring back forgotten memories. Because it encourages introspection and contemplation, it can help one better understand themselves and bring a higher degree of clarity in intellectual thought. It can also help one get to the root causes of various issues or negative thoughts or behavioral patterns and enable them to move forward and experience a greater sense of peace.
With its predominantly blue color, labradorite stimulates the throat chakra, which allows for the flow of energy through the upper and lower chakras. When it is blocked or otherwise unhealthy, the health of the other chakras can suffer greatly. When open and balanced, however, it allows one to speak and communicate clearly, bringing their personal truth to the world. An open throat chakra also facilitates the free flow of energy throughout the rest of the body.
How to Use Labradorite
Labradorite is an incredibly powerful stone, and you can experience its benefits for yourself by simply placing it in your environment. Large specimens make excellent decorative pieces and can transform the energy in your home or office. You can also wear this stone as jewelry or carry it with you. Meditating with labradorite is another option and will allow you to truly experience the full depth of what this stone has to offer.
At Crystal Allies, we carry a wide range of breathtakingly beautiful labradorite from Madagascar. Order the piece that speaks to you most today!
NOTE: All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.