Labradorite - Exceptional Iridescence
A truly magnificent labradorite gemstone from our collection of rocks and minerals.
This fully polished, highly translucent stone exhibits incredible iridescence as it reflects light from certain angles.
The colour we see in labradorite is not in the stone, what we see is the reflection of light.
This optical phenomenon is known as 'schiller,' but for labradorite, the word 'labradorescence' is also used.
Stones that exhibit the most impressive colour are often heavily included.
Inclusions can be internal fractures, other minerals or impurities. In labradorite they act as a mirror or reflector. When light enters the stone it bounces off the inclusions which creates multiple internal reflections.
The reflections enhance the scattering and interference of light, intensifying the iridescence.
Labradorescence in labradorite changes with the angle of light.
