Labradorite Tower — Blue Flash with Internal Fracture Patterns

Labradorite Tower — Blue Flash with Internal Fracture Patterns 

A polished labradorite tower showing strong blue labradorescence across multiple faces, with layered internal structure and natural fracture networks that catch and scatter light.

This piece displays classic feldspar behaviour — with flashes appearing as the stone is rotated, caused by light interacting with internal lamellar structures.

Key Features

• Mineral Type: Labradorite (Plagioclase Feldspar)

• Chemical Composition: (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈

• Crystal System: Triclinic

• Formation: Igneous (slow cooling of magma)

• Colour: Grey base with blue optical flash

• Transparency: Opaque to translucent

• Lustre: Vitreous

Feature Highlights

• Strong blue labradorescence (optical effect)

• Flash visible across multiple polished faces

• Natural internal fractures + growth textures

• Small internal reflective points creating sparkle under light

• Dark base tone enhancing contrast of colour flash

• Untreated — colour is purely structural (not pigment-based)

Dimensions

• Size: 8.8 cm x 2.5 cm

• Weight: 84 grams

Geological & Scientific Notes

Labradorite is a feldspar mineral known for labradorescence, an optical phenomenon caused by:

• Light interference within microscopic layered structures (lamellae)

• Variations in sodium and calcium during crystal growth

• Internal twinning and structural zoning

The flashes are not surface colour — they are produced internally when light reflects and refracts between these layers.

Fractures and internal planes in this piece enhance light interaction, often increasing the visibility and intensity of the flash.

Care & Handling

• Mohs hardness: 6 – 6.5

• Durable but can scratch with harder minerals

• Avoid sharp impacts (can chip along cleavage planes)

• Clean with a soft cloth — avoid harsh chemicals

• Store separately to preserve polish