Round labradorite cabochon, 33 mm in diameter and 8 mm thick, with blue-golden labradorescence on a dark gray background. Large statement piece for a ring or central pendant in 925 silver.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (albite-anorthite series plagioclase) |
| Dimensions |
33 mm diameter × 8 mm thickness |
| Shape and Back |
Round, freeform, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6-6.5 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting, especially for rings with moderate use |
| Origin |
Material acquired from wholesale market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece |
This Specific Piece
The labradorite's background is dark gray, almost black, which maximizes the contrast with the blue and golden flashes that appear when moving the piece under light.
At 8 mm thick, this piece has a considerable presence from the side profile. The 33 mm round format is a classic for cocktail rings or circular pendants; the round symmetry facilitates the design of conventional bezels and does not require custom freeform mounting.
How Labradorescence Forms
Labradorescence (also called labradorite schiller) is an optical phenomenon produced by light interference in internal crystalline lamellae.
What Mounting It Works For
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Statement ring with high bezel in 925 silver — the 33 mm round format is suitable for a cocktail ring; the oxidized or burnished silver bezel frames the blue flash without competing with it; we recommend occasional use given that a hardness of 6-6.5 Mohs can be sensitive to impacts
-
Central circular pendant in silver — the round shape fits perfectly into standard round bezel mounts; the 8 mm thickness requires a bezel of minimum 4 mm height
-
Wire wrap — the flat back facilitates anchoring; the round shape allows for symmetrical distributions of spirals and knots
Labradorite in Lapidary Tradition
Labradorite was first scientifically described in 1770 on St. Paul Island, Labrador (Canada), from which it takes its name.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to Recognize Genuine Labradorite
Authentic labradorite has an opaque gray or dark gray background that illuminates in blue, gold, or green when the piece is moved under light. The effect is visible from certain angles and disappears from others — this is labradorescence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does labradorescence cover the entire face of the piece?
It is distributed over most of the face but is not completely uniform — there are areas with more flash and others with less. The distribution is characteristic of each piece and cannot be controlled during the selection process.
Does the 33 mm round format fit standard mounts?
33 mm round bezel mounts are not a commercial standard (the closest standard is 30 mm or 35 mm). We recommend ordering a custom bezel or using wire wrap for this dimension. The diameter has a tolerance of ±0.5 mm.
Is the color effect a treatment or coating?
No. Labradorescence is completely natural, produced by the mineral's internal structure. There is no treatment or coating applied.
Can labradorite be used in an everyday ring?
With a closed bezel that protects the edge, it is viable for moderate use. For intense daily use (manual labor, sports), we recommend reserving it for special occasions, as 6-6.5 Mohs makes it susceptible to scratches against harder surfaces.
Are the dimensions 33×8 mm exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm in diameter and thickness. We recommend physical measurement before designing the mount.
How to care for labradorite?
Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid ultrasound (it can affect internal lamellae). Store separately from harder gemstones. Complete guide in jewelry care.
More about this mineral: labradorite properties and meaning. See also: all cabochons · artisan rings.
