The Magic of Labradorite
There's a reason I'm drawn to labradorite time and again. It's one of those stones that demands to be noticed. When you turn it in the light and that flash of blue, green, or gold suddenly appears, it's like watching the Northern Lights dance across stone.
Labradorite belongs to the feldspar mineral family and was first discovered in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. But the indigenous Inuit people knew about it long before then. According to their legend, the Northern Lights were once trapped within the rocks along the coast, and a wandering Inuit warrior struck the stones with his spear to free most of the lights into the sky. Some, however, remained captured in the stone, and that's the labradorescence we see today.
Understanding Labradorescence
The most captivating feature of labradorite is its labradorescence, that stunning play of colors that shimmers across the surface. This optical phenomenon occurs due to light reflecting between layers within the stone, creating those breathtaking flashes of:
- Deep blue: the most common and sought-after color
- Gold and copper: warm tones that glow like embers
- Green and teal: reminiscent of tropical waters
- Purple and violet: rare and highly prized
When I select labradorite for my pieces, I spend hours turning each stone, waiting for that perfect moment when the light catches it just right. The stone chooses you as much as you choose it.
Spiritual Meaning & Properties
Labradorite has long been associated with transformation and protection. It's often called the "Stone of Magic" and is believed to:
- Awaken intuition and enhance psychic abilities
- Protect the aura from negative energies
- Support personal transformation during times of change
- Boost creativity and inspire new ideas
Whether you're drawn to these metaphysical properties or simply love its beauty, there's something undeniably special about wearing labradorite close to your heart.
Caring for Your Labradorite Jewelry
Labradorite ranks 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it moderately durable but requiring some care:
Daily Care
- Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals and perfumes
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Cleaning
- Use lukewarm water with mild soap
- Gently clean with a soft cloth
- Never use ultrasonic cleaners or steamers
- Pat dry completely before storing
Storage
- Wrap in soft cloth or keep in a lined jewelry box
- Store away from direct sunlight
- Keep separate from harder gemstones
Featured: Labradorite Wire-Wrapped Pendant
One of my favorite pieces featuring labradorite is the Labradorite Wire-Wrapped Pendant, a one-of-a-kind creation where I hand-wrap silver wire around a stunning labradorite cabochon. Each pendant is unique because each stone has its own personality, its own flash pattern.
These pendants come on genuine leather cord, making them perfect for everyday wear while still holding onto that sense of the mystical.
Interested in a custom labradorite piece? Visit our West Adams studio in Los Angeles for a one-on-one design consultation with Iris.
Keywords: labradorite jewelry, semi-precious gemstones, handcrafted necklaces, wire-wrapped pendant, gemstone meaning, Los Angeles jewelry artist
