The History and Origins of Labradorite Crystals
JimbleAdmin Stevens
Labradorite has a rich and interesting history that stretches back centuries. This beautiful crystal, which belongs to the feldspar mineral family, is cherished not only for its beauty but also for its transformative properties.
It was disscovered in Canada
Labradorite was first discovered in 1770 on the Isle of Paul, near the town of Nain in Labrador, Canada. The local Inuit people were already familiar with the stone, using it in various tools and ornamental items. However, it was the Moravian missionaries who first documented and named the mineral, recognising its unique and beautiful iridescence. The name "Labradorite" is derived from the Labrador region, cementing its connection to this rugged and remote area.
Mythology and Legends
The Inuit people have a rich folklore surrounding labradorite. According to one legend, the Northern Lights were once trapped within the rocks along the coast of Labrador. A brave Inuit warrior struck the stones with his spear, releasing most of the lights into the sky but leaving some trapped within the stone, giving labradorite its characteristic glow. This connection to the Northern Lights is fitting, as the fantastic colours of labradorite are definitely reminiscent of the aurora borealis that often decorate the Arctic skies.
In other cultures, labradorite is considered a magical stone, believed to possess protective and mystical properties. It has been used by shamans and healers for centuries as a tool for connecting with higher realms, enhancing spiritual growth, and seeking guidance.
Geological Formation
Labradorite is a member of the feldspar group, which is the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust. It forms in igneous rocks, such as basalt and gabbro, through the cooling and solidification of magma. The unique optical phenomenon known as labradorescence, which gives labradorite its gorgeous array of colours, is caused by the interference of light within the crystal’s internal structure.
This iridescence occurs due to thin layers within the stone that reflect light back and forth, creating a spectrum of colors. These layers result from exsolution, a process where different mineral phases separate out at a microscopic level as the rock cools.
Global Spread and Varieties
While labradorite was first discovered in Canada, significant deposits have since been found around the world. Finland is known for producing a particularly vibrant variety of labradorite called Spectrolite, which exhibits an even wider range of colors than the original Labrador stones. Other notable sources include Madagascar, Russia, Ukraine, and the United States. Each location produces labradorite with slightly different characteristics, adding to the stone’s diversity and appeal.
Modern Uses and Popularity
In contemporary times, labradorite is celebrated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its metaphysical properties. It is often used in crystal healing and energy work, believed to provide protection, enhance intuition, and support transformation. Labradorite is said to create a shielding force throughout the aura, strengthening natural energies from within.
This lovely gemstone is also popular in jewellery making, where its beautiful colours are used in pendants, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Its durability, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, makes it a lovely, hardwearing crystal for life.
It was disscovered in Canada
Labradorite was first discovered in 1770 on the Isle of Paul, near the town of Nain in Labrador, Canada. The local Inuit people were already familiar with the stone, using it in various tools and ornamental items. However, it was the Moravian missionaries who first documented and named the mineral, recognising its unique and beautiful iridescence. The name "Labradorite" is derived from the Labrador region, cementing its connection to this rugged and remote area.
Mythology and Legends
The Inuit people have a rich folklore surrounding labradorite. According to one legend, the Northern Lights were once trapped within the rocks along the coast of Labrador. A brave Inuit warrior struck the stones with his spear, releasing most of the lights into the sky but leaving some trapped within the stone, giving labradorite its characteristic glow. This connection to the Northern Lights is fitting, as the fantastic colours of labradorite are definitely reminiscent of the aurora borealis that often decorate the Arctic skies.
In other cultures, labradorite is considered a magical stone, believed to possess protective and mystical properties. It has been used by shamans and healers for centuries as a tool for connecting with higher realms, enhancing spiritual growth, and seeking guidance.
Geological Formation
Labradorite is a member of the feldspar group, which is the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust. It forms in igneous rocks, such as basalt and gabbro, through the cooling and solidification of magma. The unique optical phenomenon known as labradorescence, which gives labradorite its gorgeous array of colours, is caused by the interference of light within the crystal’s internal structure.
This iridescence occurs due to thin layers within the stone that reflect light back and forth, creating a spectrum of colors. These layers result from exsolution, a process where different mineral phases separate out at a microscopic level as the rock cools.
Global Spread and Varieties
While labradorite was first discovered in Canada, significant deposits have since been found around the world. Finland is known for producing a particularly vibrant variety of labradorite called Spectrolite, which exhibits an even wider range of colors than the original Labrador stones. Other notable sources include Madagascar, Russia, Ukraine, and the United States. Each location produces labradorite with slightly different characteristics, adding to the stone’s diversity and appeal.
Modern Uses and Popularity
In contemporary times, labradorite is celebrated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its metaphysical properties. It is often used in crystal healing and energy work, believed to provide protection, enhance intuition, and support transformation. Labradorite is said to create a shielding force throughout the aura, strengthening natural energies from within.
This lovely gemstone is also popular in jewellery making, where its beautiful colours are used in pendants, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Its durability, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, makes it a lovely, hardwearing crystal for life.
