Labradorite sphere
Labradorite Sphere — Blue Flash Feldspar
This sphere is a beautiful example of labradorite showing strong blue and gold labradorescence across multiple crystal planes.
The surface displays classic feldspar twinning and internal fracture structures, while directional light reveals vivid electric blue flashes caused by light interference inside the mineral structure.
Overview
This polished labradorite sphere shows layered blue flash across a smoky grey feldspar body with visible internal crystal zoning and natural structural fractures.
Labradorite belongs to the plagioclase feldspar group and is famous for its optical phenomenon known as labradorescence — the metallic blue, gold, and green flashes seen when light reflects between microscopic lamellar layers within the crystal.
This piece has particularly strong directional blue flash with silver and pale gold tones visible under direct lighting.
Dimensions
92 grams 3.6cm diameter
Key Features
Material: Labradorite
Mineral Group: Plagioclase Feldspar
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Colour: Smoky grey, silver, blue flash, pale gold
Optical Effect: Labradorescence
Transparency: Opaque to semi-translucent in thin areas
Lustre: Vitreous
Crystal System: Triclinic
Finish: Polished sphere
Mohs Hardness: 6–6.5
Geological & Scientific Notes
Labradorescence occurs because of microscopic intergrowth layers inside the feldspar crystal.
As light enters the stone, it reflects and interferes between these internal lamellae, producing flashes of colour that shift depending on viewing angle and lighting direction.
The blue flash visible in this sphere is caused by selective light interference, similar to thin-film optical effects.
The darker fracture lines and zoning patterns visible throughout the piece are natural structural features formed during cooling and crystallisation within igneous environments.
This sphere also shows:
• Internal feldspar twinning patterns
• Directional crystal zoning
• Structural cleavage planes
• Natural fracture veining
• Multiple flash layers across different growth zones
Why This Piece Stands Out
• Strong electric blue flash
• Multiple reflective planes
• Large visible labradorescence zones
• Excellent contrast between dark body and bright flash
• Classic feldspar crystal structure visible throughout
• Highly dynamic under moving light
Care & Handling
Labradorite is relatively durable but contains natural cleavage planes which can fracture under impact.
• Avoid dropping or knocking against hard surfaces
• Clean with lukewarm water and a soft cloth
• Avoid prolonged soaking
• Store separately from harder minerals to preserve polish