No, feldspar and labradorite are two different minerals. Feldspar is a very abundant type of rock-forming mineral that is made up of a group of silicate minerals containing potassium, calcium, sodium and aluminum.
Labradorite, on the other hand, is a plagioclase feldspar mineral that has an iridescent quality when light hits it. It is typically light to dark gray in color, but is more often seen with a blue or greenish hue.
Labradorite is mainly used to adorn jewelry and is found in deposits found in Madagascar, Finland, Canada and a few other places around the world.
What’s another name for labradorite?
Labradorite is sometimes referred to as Spectrolite, due to its labradorescence which causes a range of colours to appear in the stone’s surface. Other gems have similar properties, but none have quite the same intense level as labradorite.
The labradorescence effect is caused by overlapping platy crystals. Labradorite is also sometimes referred to as Rainbow Moonstone because some specimens have a bluish transparent hue that appears reminiscent of the moon.
Does labradorite have another name?
Yes, labradorite is sometimes referred to by its other name, spectrolite. Spectrolite is its original scientific name, given by the Finnish geologist A. G. von Groenland when he identified the first piece of labradorite in the late 19th century.
Spectrolite is a combination of two Greek words; “spektros” meaning “to view” and “lithos” meaning “stone. ” Despite having a different scientific name, labradorite is still widely known by its more commonly used name, labradorite.
It is a popular stone amongst crystal enthusiasts, as it is known for its extraordinary iridescence and flashes of brilliant colors that are seen more vibrantly in certain angles and lightings. Labradorite is associated with energy and light and can be used for protection and raising awareness.
Is labradorite also known as moonstone?
No, labradorite and moonstone are two separate minerals. While both have a high luster, labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar, while moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar. Labradorite is known for its incredible array of blue, green, yellow and orange iridescence, caused by labradorite’s tendancy to diffract light.
Moonstone is admired for its milky bluish sheen and unique color play, but instead of the rainbow effect common in labradorite, the effect of moonstone is more subtle. Both are incredibly beautiful and amazing minerals, but labradorite should not be confused with moonstone.
What Zodiac is labradorite?
Labradorite is not associated with any particular zodiac sign. Labradorite is a semi-precious gemstone, known for its captivating light refraction and iridescent flashes of peacock blue, gold, pale green, or coppery red.
It is thought to be a stone of transformation and self-discovery, allowing for new heights of spiritual awareness. Labradorite is also believed to be connected to the spiritual realm and to bring clarity from confusion.
It is thought to help reduce stress, apprehension, and depression. To this day, Labradorite is still highly valued and treasured for its beauty and mystery.
Are there different types of labradorite?
Yes, there are different types of labradorite available. Labradorite is a member of the feldspar group which is comprised of a wide variety of plagioclase feldspars. Depending on the ratios of different elements within the stone, different types of labradorite can be found.
Most commonly available include Rainbow Moonstone, Spectrolite, Sunstone, and Labradorite. Rainbow Moonstone is a clear to opaque variety of labradorite that displays bright flashes of blue, green, pink, orange, and yellow.
Spectrolite is a more rare variety of labradorite that displays a multicolored display of red, green, yellow, blue, orange, and pink. Sunstone is a type of labradorite that displays vibrant red to orange tones and is often called aventurine feldspar.
Lastly, Labradorite is the most common and least expensive variety that displays blue to green an iridescent or schiller effect.
Is Larvikite the same as labradorite?
No, larvikite and labradorite are two distinct varieties of igneous rocks with different appearance and composition. Larvikite is an igneous rock that originates from the Larvik region of Norway. It is composed mainly of feldspar and quartz, with some biotite and augite.
Larvikite typically looks dark gray and solid, with a dull texture and waxy appearance. Labradorite, meanwhile, is from the feldspar family. It has a harder texture, with a rainbow of iridescent colors that are a result of light exhibition through the labradorite stones.
Labradorite comes in various shades of blues and greens, some with shades of yellow and gold. These colors may appear as shimmering flashes of light with a hint of pastel shades.
Is labradorite the same as lapis lazuli?
No, labradorite and lapis lazuli are not the same. While both are beautiful stones, they have a different composition and physical structure. Labradorite is a mineral composed of plagioclase feldspar and is colored by iron and titanium, typically exhibiting hues of blue, green, yellow, and pink.
It is often known for its spectacular iridescence, called labradorescence. Lapis lazuli is a rock composed of several minerals which vary in composition, but it is primarily composed of lazurite and calcite.
The most prized form of lapis lazuli is from Afghanistan, and is found in shades of blue and purple with inclusions of pyrite and white calcite.
Is Sunstone a type of labradorite?
No, sunstone is not a type of labradorite. Sunstone is a feldspar mineral that forms in igneous rocks, especially granite and pegmatite. This translucent mineral usually appears in shades of yellow, orange, or red due to the presence of tiny plates of hematite that reflect light in different directions, giving it a unique sparkle.
Labradorite, on the other hand, is a gemstone that occurs in igneous and metamorphic rocks, especially gabbro, anorthosite, and labradorite-pigeonite. It is characterized by a mesmerizing labradorescence caused by the presence of tiny interlocking plates that refract light, creating beautiful iridescent blues and greens.
The two minerals have similar appearances, but their compositions are quite distinct.
Is labradorite an alkali feldspar?
No, labradorite is not an alkali feldspar. Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar, which contains calcium and sodium, while alkali feldspars such as sanidine and albite contain only sodium and potassium.
Labradorite is a highly valued, translucent, ornamental stone that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It is most often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and has a bright iridescent or ‘labradoresence’ when light refracts through it.
Commomly known as the ‘stone of the spirits,’ labradorite is used for jewelry, sculptures and decorative items. It is also used for metaphysical and healing purposes.
What are the three types of feldspar?
The three types of feldspar are: potassium feldspar, albite feldspar, and anorthite feldspar.
Potassium feldspar is the most common type of feldspar and is usually grey, white, pink, or light purple. It has a low melting point and is easily distinguishable by its white and purple mica flecks.
Albite feldspar is a white and translucent feldspar. It is quite rare but is often found in sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. It is most often found in the form of a powder or large crystals and has a high melting point.
Anorthite feldspar is grey and has a higher melting point than both potassium and albite feldspar. It is mostly found in igneous rocks and is considered relatively rare.
In summary, the three types of feldspar are potassium, albite, and anorthite, each with its own characteristics and physical components. Each type of feldspar is found in different rocks, and each has its own uses in industry, craft, and art.
What gemstones are in the feldspar family?
The feldspar family consists of a large group of related minerals that are formed from the silicate alkali and include different forms of calcium sodium and potassium silicates. The most common gemstone from this family are Moonstone, Orthoclase, Microcline, Sunstone, Adular, Labradorite and Amazonite.
Moonstone has a pearly and opalescent, almost lunar type sheen. Orthoclase is typically yellow to pinkish in color and known for its high clarity and sharp luster. Microcline tends to be clear to greenish and is often faceted into gemstones.
Sunstone has a lovely orange tint, and is known for the spectacular manner in which its internal light reflections sparkle. Adular, also known as Silver Moon, is a milky colored gemstone with a beautiful sheen.
Labradorite is an iridescent stone that features a unique shimmer. Amazonite is a beautiful gem with a unique turquoise colour and a brilliant waxy luster.
What type of crystal is feldspar?
Feldspar is a collective name for a group of crystalline minerals that are extremely abundant on Earth. Due to their significant presence in many rocks, almost every rock type contains some form of feldspar.
The minerals in the feldspar group are mostly composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen, with smaller amounts of other elements such as iron, calcium, and sodium. Including potassium feldspar, plagioclase, alkali feldspar, and orthoclase.
They often form translucent crystals, which can range in color from white to shades of yellow, green, and pink. In addition to being found in rocks, they are used in a wide variety of products, such as ceramics, glass, paint, and fertilizers.
Feldspar is also an important component of granite and other igneous rocks, and can make up to 60% of the composition of some types of metamorphic rocks.
How can you tell if labradorite is real?
Labradorite, a semi-precious stone belonging to the feldspar family, is prized for its remarkable iridescence and play of color. To tell if your labradorite is real, there are several tests you can perform.
Firstly, you can check the labradorite’s weight. A real labradorite stone is significantly heavier than other stones. Additionally, you can examine the stone’s transparency and opacity. Authentic labradorite should appear translucent when held against the light.
Finally, you can inspect the labradorite’s color and shape. Generally, real labradorite is flecked with rainbow-colored iridescence and has a quadrangular shape.
Furthermore, you may use a gemstone tester or a multi-tester to be sure the stone is genuine. With a gemstone tester, you can measure the chemical and electrical properties of the material. Meanwhile, a multi-tester can examine the specific gravity and approximate hardness of the stone.
Aside from physical testing, you can also check for authentication certificates or lab reports for the item. This is a surefire way to determine whether or not it is real.
In conclusion, to tell if your labradorite is real, you can simply weigh the stone, inspect its transparency and color, use a gemstone tester or multi-tester, and request a certificate of authentication or lab report.
Are moonstone and labradorite in the same family?
No, moonstone and labradorite are not in the same family. Moonstone is a gemstone made from two varieties of feldspar: orthoclase and albite. Labradorite is a variety of feldspar from the plagioclase series.
They are different types of minerals, so they are not in the same family. However, both moonstone and labradorite have a beautiful blue sheen that has made them popular as jewelry stones. They have also been used in jewelry and other decorative items for over 5000 years.
Labradorite is renowned for its play of color, while moonstone is known for its colorful adularescence (shimmering effect).