Labradorite Meaning, History and Benefits
|
|
|
Time to read 4 min
With flashes of iridescent blue, green and gold, labradorite is one of the most magical-looking gemstones on earth. Its shimmering play of colour, called labradorescence, has made it a favourite talisman of transformation, intuition and protection.
This guide covers its meaning, history and benefits, how to wear it, and how to care for your jewellery so it keeps its glow.
This is a feldspar gemstone famous for its blue, green and gold flashes, known as labradorescence.
It was named after Labrador in Canada, where it was identified in the 1770s.
It's known as the stone of transformation, linked with intuition, protection and calm.
At 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, it needs gentle cleaning and careful storage.
The History of Labradorite
This stone takes its name from Labrador, a region in north-eastern Canada, where Moravian missionaries recorded it in the 1770s. It belongs to the feldspar family, the most abundant group of minerals in the earth's crust.
The legend of the northern lights
According to Inuit legend, the aurora borealis once danced above the coast of Labrador until a warrior struck it with his spear. The lights fell to earth and were trapped inside the rocks, giving the stone its otherworldly shimmer.
Where it's found today
- Canada, where it was first identified
- Finland, home of the especially colourful variety called spectrolite
- Madagascar, a major source of the stone used in jewellery today
What Labradorite Looks Like
Most pieces flash with blue, from icy aqua to deep navy. Depending on the stone and the light, you may also see:
- Green and teal
- Golden yellow and peach
- Fiery orange and copper
- Rare violet and lavender flashes
What causes labradorescence?
The colour comes from thin internal layers inside the stone that scatter light as it moves. That's why the flashes appear and disappear as you turn it, and why no two stones ever look the same.
Labradorite Meaning and Benefits
It's often called the stone of transformation. In crystal traditions, it's a companion for times of change, growth and new beginnings.
It is traditionally associated with:
- Transformation: helping you let go of old habits and step into a new chapter.
- Intuition: linked with the third eye and crown chakras, and with insight and imagination.
- Protection: thought to act as an energetic shield against negativity.
- Calm: said to soothe stress and bring clarity when life feels noisy.
- Luck and abundance: believed to attract opportunity and good fortune.
These meanings come from crystal lore rather than science, but they're a big part of why this stone feels so personal to wear.
How to Wear Labradorite Jewellery
One of the easiest ways to keep this stone close is to wear it every day.
Ways to wear it
- A labradorite ring for a flash of colour every time you move your hands
- Beaded bracelets for stacking with gold or silver
- Pendants and beaded necklaces that sit close to the heart
Perfect pairings
It pairs beautifully with rainbow moonstone. Where it brings transformation and protection, moonstone brings emotional balance and calm. Learn the difference in our guide to labradorite vs moonstone, or get ideas for layering gemstone jewellery.
How to Care for Labradorite
This stone rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, so it's durable enough for everyday wear but can scratch or chip if knocked.
How to clean it
- Wash gently in warm water with a drop of mild soap.
- Use a soft cloth or brush, then dry straight away.
- Store it separately in a soft pouch to avoid scratches.
What to avoid
- Harsh chemicals, chlorine and perfume
- Ultrasonic and steam cleaners
- Sudden temperature changes and hard knocks
For more tips, read our guide to caring for handcrafted jewellery.
Why We Love Labradorite
At Indie and Harper, this stone holds a special place in our hearts. It seems to glow from within, and every flash of colour feels like a little piece of the northern lights.
- Every stone is one of a kind, with its own pattern of colour.
- Its cool blue tones look beautiful with gold, silver and rose gold.
- It suits every style, from boho stacks to clean, minimal pieces.
- It's one of our customers' all-time favourite stones.
Explore our full labradorite jewellery collection to find your piece.
Labradorite FAQs
What does labradorite mean spiritually?
Labradorite is known as the stone of transformation. In crystal lore, it's believed to protect your energy, awaken intuition and help you move confidently through change.
How do I use labradorite in daily life?
Wear it as jewellery, keep a small stone in your pocket, or hold it during meditation. Many people like to wear it close to the skin for its calming, protective energy.
How do I cleanse labradorite?
Rinse it briefly in lukewarm water, dry it with a soft cloth, then leave it in moonlight or on a selenite plate to recharge. Avoid long periods in strong sunlight.
Which chakras and zodiac signs are linked to labradorite?
In crystal traditions, it is linked with the third eye and throat chakras, and is often associated with Scorpio, Leo and Sagittarius.
How can I tell if labradorite is real?
A genuine stone shows natural labradorescence, with flashes of blue, green or gold that shift as you turn it. Glass or dyed imitations usually look flat or the same colour from every angle. Read more in our labradorite vs moonstone guide.
