Create Eye-catching Jewelry with Labradorite Beads

Labradorite is a popular gemstone that produces a stunning play of colors — known as labradorescence — which moves as the stone is rotated. This dazzling optical phenomenon is due to the formations of intergrowths within its structure that create a shimmery, ethereal effect.

Origin

A Moravian missionary discovered the gemstone in 1770 on the Canadian Isle of Paul in Labrador.

Spectrolite is the trade name for the high-quality labradorite mined in Finland that produces intense color flashes, known as the schiller effect.

Madagascar and Russia produce a large amount of gray and black labradorite that has labradorescence, while transparent labradorite is mined in India. The gemstone is also mined in the United States, Mexico, South America and Norway.

The state of Oregon produces yellow, orange, red, blue, green and clear labradorite that does not have any labradorescence. Copper inclusions can create an aventurescence flash. These gemstones are called Oregon Sunstones and are very popular because they can be carved, faceted and polished to create stunning jewelry. In 1987, the Oregon state legislature designated it as the state’s official gemstone.

Characteristics

Labradorite is part of the plagioclase series of minerals that are made up of feldspars. This gemstone contains between 50 and 70 percent anorthite and is widely used in the glass and ceramics industries.

Although it appears as a dirty gray color in the rough, cut stones have a metallic luster and an iridescent sheen.

The structure has tiny, repeating layers of twinning inclusions that are composed of black magnetite or ilmenite and exhibit some fracturing. This structural interference creates the labradorescence when the light diffracts off the gemstone.

A variety of colors of light — including pink, blue, green and yellow — reflect off the layers of the stone. The colors displayed depend on the thickness and uniformity of each layer.

Labradorite is a 6.0 to a 6.5 on the Mohs scale.

Meanings and Associations

Labradorite has its share of ancient legends and lore that make it a fascinating stone. The native Canadians believed this gemstone was formed from the fire made by the northern lights that had frozen in that area.

It is also called the magic stone and is said to be the gemstone of choice for diviners, healers, shamans and those who want to be more in tune with the inner spirit, psychic abilities and intuition. Many believe that it protects against bad luck while aiding in knowing what is to come for the future.

Labradorite helps to improve concentration, clarity and courage while keeping negative energy away. Inner peace is brought to those who wear this gemstone. It is also believed to detoxify the body, protect the wearer’s aura and slow the aging process.

This gemstone is associated with the moon and Uranus, along with the astrological signs of Scorpio, Sagittarius and Aquarius.

Jewelry Ideas

This gorgeous semi-precious stone comes in hues of green, gray and blue, depending on its facets, and makes incredibly exquisite jewelry. Why not add some magic and luster to your jewelry collection by creating unique pieces with labradorite beads? Here are some suggestions for incorporating this beautiful gemstone into your creative designs this fall.

• Statement Necklace

Bulky statement necklaces are red-carpet hot! A labradorite focal piece can create a sparkling illusion, and a collection of these beads will make you dazzle. Craft this bold and stunning statement piece in a magnificent combination of labradorite and other gemstones.

• Pendant

With iridescent gemstones dominating the jewelry scene, this simple DIY pendant is charming. The striking rainbow-colored reflections are eye-catching in this bespoke and timeless piece.

• Labradorite Geo Drop Earrings

Drop earrings are the perfect fall accessory because they can be worn with turtlenecks, sweaters and scarves. Fabric and big earrings dominated the catwalks in Paris and New York this year, and we learned a statement earring can transform a full coverage look. If you are fortifying your fall wardrobe, include these easy-to-make labradorite drop earrings.

• Layered Chain Bracelet

Chain-link jewelry with edgy iterations or timeless style was spotted on the runways of several major designers such as Alexander Wong this year. This fabulous fall DIY layered bracelet is made from leftover pieces of chain, and you can add labradorite toggles for a flash of color that creates an extraordinary fashion-forward piece.

Stand Out from the Crowd with Beautiful Labradorite

Labradorite is a uniquely magical gemstone with a gorgeous sheen and a stunning play of colors that are reminiscent of a peacock. Its defining traits make it valuable to jewelers, artists and designers all over the world. Make your own jewelry with labradorite and other gemstone beads today!