Labradorite is
a feldspar mineral known for its distinctive iridescent shine called labradorescence. It displays a brilliant play of colours, most often blue and green, but can include the full colour spectrum in a rarer variety known as spectrolite. 
Characteristics
- Iridescence: Light diffraction within the stone's layered structure is responsible for the vibrant flash of colours, which shift as the stone is viewed from different angles.
- Composition: A plagioclase feldspar mineral with a calcium-sodium chemical structure.
- Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for most jewellery.
- Transparency: Can range from transparent to opaque.
- Geographic origin: First discovered in Labrador, Canada, in the late 1700s. Today, it is also mined in countries including Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Russia, and the USA.
Metaphysical properties and uses
In addition to its use in jewellery, labradorite is a popular stone in crystal healing and spiritual practices.
- For spiritual growth: Often referred to as the "Stone of Transformation," labradorite is believed to enhance intuition, spiritual awareness, and psychic abilities. It is said to ease an overactive mind and open one to messages from other realms.
- For protection: Many believe labradorite provides an energetic shield against negativity, psychic attacks, and stress.
- For emotional well-being: It is thought to promote self-worth and confidence while helping to dispel fear and anxiety. For those who feel overworked, it is said to restore energy.
- For healing: Some people use labradorite to support respiratory and digestive health and to promote clarity and emotional balance.
- Associated chakra: The stone is strongly linked to the third eye and throat chakras.
