Labradorite Gemstone Beads
Labradorite is known for its remarkable play of color, mainly exhibiting vibrant flashes of peacock blue, gold, pale green, or coppery red, which is known as labradorescence. This iridescence is due to the unique structure of the mineral, which consists of layered aggregations that refract light as it enters the stone. Labradorite belongs to the plagioclase feldspar group and typically forms in mafic igneous rocks.
Facts: Labradorite is rooted in myth and magic. Inuit tribes believed that the stone was frozen fire, a piece of the Aurora Borealis fallen to earth. This mystical belief highlights the enchanting visual aspects of Labradorite that captivate all who behold it. Its use extends beyond adornment; ancient warriors often carried Labradorite as a talisman for protection in battle, linking common beliefs with practical and cultural uses over centuries.
Metaphysical / Holistic: Labradorite is considered a stone of transformation and magic. It is said to enhance intuitive abilities, providing clarity, and connecting the waking mind to the subconscious.
What gives labradorite its flash
That blue-and-gold shimmer has a name: labradorescence. Light bounces between microscopic layers inside the feldspar, so the color you see depends entirely on the angle. At rest the bead reads charcoal grey — tilt it toward the light and it flashes peacock blue, gold, and green. No two beads flash the same way.
See the flash in motion
The strands in this clip are AAA-grade labradorite rounds — the grade with the strongest, most consistent flash. Watch the color travel across each bead as it turns. A photo only hints at it; labradorite is a stone you really have to see move.
Choose your size and cut
Labradorite is stocked across a range of bead sizes and cuts — smooth rounds, faceted, and more — so you can match a finished piece or build a graduated set, all shipping together in one order. It's a feldspar (Mohs ~6–6.5), so store it apart from harder stones and wipe it clean with a soft, damp cloth. Browse the full selection below.
Labradorite 20mm A Grade Coin Cabochon
Original price
$15.00
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Original price
$15.00
Original price
$15.00
$15.00
-
$15.00
Labradorite is remarkable for the way its aggregate layers refract light, creating iridescent flashes of blue, gold, pale green or copper red. This...
View full details
Original price
$15.00
-
Original price
$15.00
Original price
$15.00
$15.00
-
$15.00
Labradorite 20mm AAA Grade Coin Cabochon
Original price
$28.00
-
Original price
$28.00
Original price
$28.00
$28.00
-
$28.00
Labradorite is remarkable for the way its aggregate layers refract light, creating iridescent flashes of blue, gold, pale green or copper red. This...
View full details
Original price
$28.00
-
Original price
$28.00
Original price
$28.00
$28.00
-
$28.00
About this stone
Color
GrayDark GrayBlackIridescent (blue, gold, green flash)
Origin
MadagascarCanada (Labrador)Finland (Spectrolite)Russia
Mohs hardness
6–6.5
Treatment categories
Natural
Industry-standard treatment
None — labradorite is typically untreated
Mineral chemistry
Plagioclase feldspar (calcium-sodium aluminum silicate)
Crystal system
Triclinic
Stone family
Feldspar
Common cuts
Faceted RondelleRoundSmoothFreeform
Common sizes
4mm6mm8mm10mm
Care notes
Mohs 6–6.5 with two cleavage directions. Avoid ultrasonic. Best in necklaces, earrings, pendants; use with care in rings and bracelets.
Related stones
Moonstone, Sunstone, Spectrolite (variety), Amazonite
Frequently asked questions
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How do you grade labradorite flash?
Grade reflects how strong and consistent the flash is. AAA beads show the brightest, most even color play across the strand; AA and A show flash that is more selective or appears at narrower angles. Higher grades cost more because more of the rough has to be cut away to keep the flash. The grade is listed on each product where it applies. -
Why does labradorite flash blue and gold?
That shifting blue-and-gold sheen is called labradorescence. Light reflects between microscopic layers inside the stone, so the color you see depends on the angle. Held still, a bead reads charcoal grey; tilt it toward the light and it flashes blue, gold, and sometimes green. No two beads flash exactly alike. -
Is rainbow moonstone the same thing as labradorite?
Mineralogically, yes — "rainbow moonstone" is white labradorite with a pale body color and adularescence-like flash, primarily from Madagascar. The trade name "rainbow moonstone" persists for marketing reasons; designers shopping the look may find the same material under either category in any given catalog. The mineral identity should be clarified. -
Is labradorite treated or dyed?
No — labradorite is sold untreated. The color and the flash are natural to the stone, not added; the beads are simply cut and polished. If a specific item is ever an exception, it is noted on that product's page. -
How do I care for labradorite beads?
Labradorite is a feldspar with a Mohs hardness of about 6 to 6.5, so it is softer than quartz. Store it apart from harder stones to avoid scratches, keep it away from harsh chemicals, and wipe it clean with a soft, damp cloth.