What's That Rock?Labradorite
A feldspar that flashes blue, green or gold as it is tilted. This effect is called labradorescence.
How to identify Labradorite
- Dull gray until tilted, then metallic color flashes
- Fine parallel lines on some flat faces (twinning)
- Scratches glass lightly
Often confused with
Real or fake?
- Treated or coated stones can show flat, even color flashes; natural flash comes and goes with angle
Is Labradorite valuable?
Inexpensive to moderate.
Typical retail prices
Tumbled stone$3–10each
Rough$15–60per pound
Polished piece$5–60each
Cut gemstone$1–10per carat
Finnish spectrolite with a full rainbow flash costs more.
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Flash: broad, bright, multi-color flash (spectrolite from Finland) is worth far more than dull gray with faint flash
- Cut: cabochons and slabs cut to show the flash cost more than random pieces
- Treatment: coated or dyed material exists; natural flash comes and goes with the angle
- Size and clarity: large clean pieces with strong flash are scarce
Uses
- Jewelry and carvings
Care
Can cleave if struck. Avoid knocks; clean with mild soap and water.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026