About Larvikite

Larvikite is also known as blue labradorite, black labradorite, and black moonstone, but it is not the same. Larvikite has a grey/black background with a chatoyant grey-blue flash. A type of feldspar with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6-1/2, this striking gemstone is named for the Larvik Fjords in Norway where it was first discovered in the 1880s, and where major deposits are still found.  Norway’s named Larvikite as the national stone in 2007.

Mineral Class: Feldspar
Hardness: 6-6.5

About Labradorite

Labradorite, named after the Canadian province of Labrador where it was first discovered in 1770, has since been found in Australia, Finland, and Madagascar, Mexico, Norway, Russia, and the USA.  Labradorite exhibits such captivating colors that legends arose that the Northern Lights shone down and were captured inside the stone.

Labradorite displays a beautiful iridescent play of colors, which move as the stone is rotated.  Labradorite gemstones usually have a dark base color with metallic-looking color plays of blue, green, red, and yellow. This iridescent effect known as labradorescence, is named after this stone. It is caused by internal fractures that reflect light back and forth, dispersing it into different colors. Labradorite is often heavily flawed with internal dark lines and streaks. Handle Labradorite with care, as it is sensitive to pressure and can easily crack or chip.

Chemical Formula: NaAlASi3O8 to CaAl2Si2O8 Sodium calcium aluminum silicate
Hardness: 6 - 6.5 Mohs scale

Care of Labradorite Obsidian &  Larvikite

Clean using a soft cloth and soapy water rinsing well and polishing after to remove any soap residue. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Store in a soft case away from hard objects to avoid being scratched.