Labradorite

A type of feldspar with an uninteresting background colour but displaying an iridescence which gives the stone its value. The background colour is a dark smoke grey, but when light strikes it in a particular direction, it displays striking rainbow-coloured reflections (peacock blue, coppery red or dusky gold) known as labradorescence. The name derives (1814) from its main source, the Labrador peninsula in Canada. Labradorite is thought by some to symbolize the moon and the sun and has, in fact, been found to be a constituent of moon rock. Feldspar, and therefore labradorite, assists one to progress from old ways, encouraging unconventional and exciting new methods to attain one’s goals. Labradorite can also assist one to handle changes, promoting strength and perseverance. It has been known as the matriarch of the subconscious mind, facilitating the transformation of intuition into intellectual thought. It is said to be helpful in the treatment of disorders of the brain, to stimulate mental acuity and reduce anxiety and stress. It can assist in digestion, regulation and metabolism and has been used to clarify the eyes. Labradorite is Saturday’s gemstone.