Years

Ac de cravata din argint cu labradorite
Piesa unicat
Dimenisuni: lungime 5,5 cm / latime 0,6 cm

Labradorite is a gemstone that was named after Labrador in Canada, where it was found on the Isle of Paul, near Nain in 1770. It has since been found in other places, including Finland, Madagascar, and Australia. After its discovery, labradorite became popular with the missionaries. Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar which shows adularescence (a white or bluish light seen when turned). This optical effect is so unique to labradorite that it has been termed „labradorescence”. It is the result of diffraction of light in the layers of rock. When viewed at certain angles, labradorite exhibits such captivating colour that has led to Inuit legends stating that the Northern Lights shone down on the shores of Labrador and were captured inside these colourful stones. The most highly valued labradorite is material that shows the full spectrum of colour in its labradorescence. Labradorite that does not exhibit labradorescence can still make beautiful gemstones because of aventurescence, which is a glitter caused by diffraction of light from mineral platelets.

Labradorite Colour

Labradorite is grey to grey-black with colourful iridescence, or spectral „labradorescence”. This is a result of diffraction of light in the layers of rock. Popular colours are royal blue and multicolour. Labradorite can also be colourless, orange-red and brownish. The metallic tints of labradorite can show the full spectrum of colour, especially in spectrolite, which is named after the full range of colour that it exhibits.

Labradorite Clarity and Lustre

The lustrous metallic schiller in labradorite is caused by the diffraction of light in the layers of rock. When labradorite is exposed to light and viewed at different angles, the schiller can be seen in different colours. The spectral play of colour is a result of tiny, desirable inclusions. Transparent to translucent labradorite with few inclusions usually appears blue. Usually, the higher the clarity, the less the play of colour. Labradorite is a transparent to opaque material. The translucent gemstones are more desirable because they display the sought-after labradorescence. Labradorite that does not exhibit labradorescence can still make beautiful gemstones because of aventurescence, which is a shimmer caused by diffraction of light from mineral platelets.

Labradorite Gemstone Jewellery Care and Cleaning

Although labradorite has a hardness of 6 – 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which is softer than quartz, it is a durable material. This is thought to be because labradorite is not brittle. To clean your labradorite, simply use soapy water and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse well to remove soapy residue. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Always remove any jewellery or gemstones before exercising, cleaning or engaging in harsh physical activities such as sports. Labradorite can be easily scratched by harder substances, so it should be stored away from other gemstones. It is best to wrap gemstones in soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewellery box.