Rectangular labradorite cabochon in a long baguette cut (43×17 mm) with electric blue and golden labradorite. Flat polished back, gently domed top face. Unusual proportions that make the jewel a statement piece.
Item details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (plagioclase feldspar, anorthite-albite series) |
| Dimensions |
43×17 mm (length × width). Variation of ±0.5 mm |
| Shape and back |
Elongated rectangular (baguette), flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6–6.5 Mohs — suitable for a ring with side bezel; functional wire wrap |
| Origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
Untreated. The labradorite is structural (not dyed) |
| Type of piece |
Unique piece |
This particular piece
The rectangular format is uncommon in labradorite — most cabochons are offered in oval or teardrop shapes. The baguette proportion (43×17 mm, 2.5:1 ratio) distributes the labradorite in a luminous horizontal band that runs the entire length when the angle of light changes. The main flash is electric blue with a transition to gold; the back is perfectly flat.
How labradorite forms
Labradorite (Schiller effect) is produced by alternating layers of albite and anorthite on a nanoscale, which interleave through exsolution during magma cooling. These lamellae act as a diffraction grating: light undergoes interference and reinforces certain colors depending on the thickness and angle. In unfractured and well-oriented pieces, the flash is clean and deep.
What mounting it works for
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Central pendant in 925 silver bezel — the horizontal format is ideal for a medallion pendant; oxidized silver contrasts with the blue flash.
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Statement ring — 43×17 mm is the scale of a statement ring; the long bezel showcases the labradorite to its full extent.
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Wire wrap — the perfectly flat back facilitates the wire base; the long format offers a good surface for the metal structure.
Labradorite in tradition
Scientifically described in 1770 on the Labrador Peninsula, the Inuit people already knew it as a stone of power. The Finnish variety with greater color saturation (spectrolite) was enormously popular in Victorian and Arts & Crafts jewelry. In crystal tradition, it is associated with intuition and transformation.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is the color natural or treated?
The labradorite is 100% natural: a structural optical phenomenon produced by the internal microstructure. No detectable treatment.
Is it suitable for an everyday ring?
With 6–6.5 Mohs, it withstands daily use; for everyday wear, we recommend a bezel that protects the edges and avoids side impacts.
Why is the flash only visible at some angles?
Labradorite is anisotropic: the internal layers are oriented in a specific plane and only produce the flash when light strikes almost perpendicularly to that plane.
What metal complements it best?
925 silver is the classic pairing; copper creates a warm contrast that is particularly striking for wire wrap.
How is it cared for?
Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid ultrasound and steam. More at jewelry care.
More about labradorite: properties, meaning and uses. See also: cabochon collection · handmade rings.
