Iridescent Labradorite

Labradorite gets its name from the Labrador Peninsula, a region located on the northeast coast of Canada. It was discovered by European missionaries and explorers who visited this area in the 18th century. The name "labradorite" is derived from this place of discovery.

In its early days, labradorite was mainly used for ornamentation and in the manufacture of decorative objects. Its iridescent beauty made it a highly prized gemstone for jewelry and other decorative objects. What made labradorite stand out and be recognized is its amazing iridescence phenomenon. When viewed from different angles, labradorite displays a play of brilliant colors that can include blues, greens, yellows, oranges and reds. This effect is known as the "Schiller effect" and is a distinctive characteristic of labradorite.

The Schiller effect in labradorite produces a range of colors that can include blues, greens, yellows, oranges and reds. What is notable is that these colors are not static; They change as the stone is rotated or moved, creating a dazzling and dynamic visual effect.

The Schiller effect in labradorite is caused by light interference with thin, parallel sheets within the mineral structure. These sheets are known as "calcium inclusions" and are arranged in layers. When light hits the labradorite and passes through these layers, it breaks down into different wavelengths, resulting in a display of colors.