Labradorite – Meaning & Qualities

Raw Labradorite

An impression of the raw stone

“True strength lies not in what you see, but in what you imagine.”

Matte Black Labradorite is for the thinkers and the doers who understand that silence is often more powerful than noise. It is a stone for those who value inner peace and dare to explore the depths of their own thoughts.

While classic labradorite is known for its colourful shimmer, this matte variant commands respect with its subtle texture and understated appearance. Its deep black, mysterious finish makes it a powerful symbol for introspection and boundless imagination.

As it is a natural product, no two beads are exactly alike. No two stones are exactly the same; therefore, each bead has its own unique pattern and character.

Why people choose Labradorite

Traditionally associated with calmness and inner peace
A stone that symbolises imagination and intuition
Understated matte finish with a mysterious, deep black appearance
Timeless design that effortlessly combines with any style
Subtle natural textures give each bead its own character

The Stone

Traditional Meaning: Calmness • Imagination • Introspection
Origin: Canada • Madagascar • Mexico
Zodiac Sign: Leo • Scorpio

History

Labradorite was first scientifically described in 1770, after its discovery on Paul Island near the coast of Labrador, Canada. According to ancient Inuit legends, the Northern Lights were once trapped in the rocks along the coast, until an ancestral warrior struck the stones with his spear and freed the colours.

Geologically, labradorite belongs to the feldspar group and is known for the unique optical effect called labradorescence. In this specific matte variant, the stone's structure has been treated so that its lustre remains understated, shifting the focus to the mineral's deep, dark texture.

Astrology & Moon

Within astrology, labradorite is traditionally linked to the zodiac signs Leo and Scorpio. Where Leo is associated with nurturing creative imagination, for Scorpio, the stone is traditionally linked to a natural inclination towards deep introspection and understanding the unseen.

In relation to the lunar calendar, this dark stone is often associated with the new moon. This is the phase of the cycle that symbolises rest, reflection, and the planting of seeds for new ideas in the fertile darkness of the mind.

Within Chakra Teachings

Within chakra teachings, labradorite is traditionally connected to the throat chakra, also known as Vishuddha. In this tradition, this energy centre symbolises self-expression, honest communication, and the ability to bring one's inner truth to the fore.

Additionally, within Eastern traditions, the stone is often linked to the brow chakra or third eye (Ajna). This chakra symbolises intuition, deeper insight, and the ability to look beyond physical reality to the underlying patterns of life.

Interesting Facts

The stone's optical effect, labradorescence, occurs because light is refracted between microscopic layers of two different types of feldspar within the mineral.
A rare variety of labradorite that displays the full colour spectrum is called spectrolite; it was discovered by chance in Finland during the construction of defence lines in the Second World War.
Although the stone owes its name to the Canadian coast, a large part of the most colourful labradorite now comes from the mines of Madagascar.
In the 18th century, the stone was so popular in France and England that it was widely used in refined jewellery designed to mimic the colours of the peacock.

Care

Labradorite is a type of feldspar and is moderately hard, with a rating of approximately 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Feldspar has cleavage planes, meaning the stone can crack or chip if struck hard — wear your bracelet with care and store it separately from other jewellery.

Labradorite can withstand brief contact with water, but do not let it soak for extended periods. Remove your bracelet before showering, swimming, and exercising, and keep it away from perfume, soap, and lotion, to preserve the beautiful matte, deep black finish.

For care, wipe the beads with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Avoid chemical cleaners to maintain the stone's understated, mysterious texture.

View the Labradorite bracelet in the shop →

Complements well with

Onyx · Black Sunstone · Amethyst

Honesty about meaning: the properties on this page describe what this stone has traditionally symbolised and with what it is associated within traditions and astrology. Mad Monk Jewellery makes no claims: we do not promise that a stone has a specific effect or power, or that it will bring about any particular outcome for you. What we do promise: a natural gemstone, carefully selected and hand-finished.

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