Feldspar
Labradorite
Material record
Grey-based and layered with shifting flashes, labradorite gives a bracelet movement and depth.
- Original family
- Feldspar
- Browse family
- Feldspar
- Colors
- Gray
- Archive notes
- Depth
Visual character
Gray to dark gray feldspar that may show blue, green, or gold flashes as it moves. This labradorescence is directional, so the effect can appear strong, subtle, or absent depending on the bead and viewing angle.
From raw to bead
Raw labradorite can look subdued until a smoother surface and favorable orientation reveal internal flashes. Rounded polishing improves reflection, although each bead may show its color play at a different angle.
Origin & geology
Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar. Its optical flash comes from light interacting with fine internal lamellae formed during cooling and exsolution within the feldspar; it occurs in several igneous and metamorphic rock settings.
Key notes
- Depth
- Mystery
- Contrast
Pairings
Moonstonebuilds a cool light-on-light effect
Smoky Quartzadds shadow and texture
Silver detailskeeps the palette crisp
Care & wear
Feldspar is less hard than quartz and can scratch or chip with impact. Avoid abrupt temperature changes and ultrasonic cleaning when inclusions or fractures are unknown. Clean gently with a soft cloth; for a finished Veil Loom bracelet, follow the care needs of the complete composition.
Curator note
Labradorite changes as it moves. It suits pieces meant to reveal themselves slowly rather than all at once.
Seen in finished pieces
