Handmade ring with a teardrop-shaped labradorite cabochon, hand-set with copper prongs. The labradorite's play of color displays electric blues, golds, and greens that change in intensity and direction with every movement. A unique collector's piece.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (calcic plagioclase feldspar) |
| Stone Dimensions |
Teardrop, ±25×18 mm — unique, uncalibrated piece |
| Shape and Back |
Teardrop shape, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Metal |
Copper with prongs |
| Stone Origin |
Madagascar / Canada (Labrador) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique handmade piece |
This Specific Piece
The teardrop shape directs the visual focus towards the lower apex, creating a downward movement that concentrates the gaze. The labradorescence of this cabochon is particularly pronounced in the upper-central sector, where electric blue dominates before transitioning to golds and greens at the edges.
The copper prongs leave the complete profile of the teardrop visible without interrupting the outline, preserving the geometry of the cabochon. The copper will develop a natural patina with use, framing the stone differently over time.
Labradorite in Lapidary Tradition
Discovered on the Labrador Peninsula (Canada) by Moravians in 1770, labradorite fascinated European explorers with its apparent contradiction: a dull grey stone that transforms into an explosion of color when moved. The Inuit people had a legend attributing its fires to the aurora borealis trapped within the rock. Labradorescence is the result of light interference between internal layers of alternating composition (Bøggild intergrowth lamellae) — a purely optical phenomenon. In crystal tradition, labradorite is associated with transformation and enhanced perception.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the colors in labradorite?
Labradorescence comes from the interference and reflection of light between internal layers of the mineral with alternating chemical composition. There is no pigment: it is a pure optical phenomenon, like the rainbow on a CD.
Are the flashes visible from all angles?
No. Labradorescence is only activated from certain angles. There is a main axis of maximum brightness; moving away from it, the colors lose intensity. This is part of its character as an optical mineral.
What is the hardness of labradorite?
Mohs 6-6.5. Suitable for daily wear with moderate care. Avoid direct impacts and abrasive materials.
Is the labradorite treated?
No detectable treatment. The flashes are completely natural. No formal gemological certification; statement based on lapidary observation.
How do I care for this ring?
Clean the stone with a soft, dry cloth. The copper can be polished with microfiber or allowed to patina naturally. Do not submerge. More details can be found in jewelry care.
See also our collection of handmade rings.
