Labradorite is celebrated for its unique optical effect known as labradorescence. This schiller, or play of color, is a stunning display of iridescent blues, greens, golds, and sometimes reds that flash from within the stone as it is moved. The crystal’s base color is typically a muted dark gray, black, or grayish-white, making the sudden bursts of color dramatic. Proper care and handling are paramount to preserve this signature visual appeal.
Water Safety for Labradorite
Labradorite can get wet for short periods, but prolonged water exposure should be strictly avoided. A quick rinse under running water is generally safe for cleaning the surface of the stone and removing dust or light debris. This brief interaction will not immediately cause damage due to the stone’s relative hardness.
Extended soaking or immersion, however, risks diminishing the stone’s brilliance and integrity. The risk increases significantly when the water is hot, chemically treated, or contains salt. Activities like swimming in a chlorinated pool or taking a hot shower should be avoided. If the stone gets wet, dry it thoroughly and immediately with a soft cloth to minimize moisture contact time.
Understanding Labradorite’s Composition and Structure
Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar mineral, an intermediate member of a mineral series that includes both sodium and calcium in its chemical composition. It ranks between 6 and 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it reasonably resistant to scratching but still softer than quartz. The stone possesses two distinct directions of perfect cleavage, meaning it has internal planes of weakness prone to splitting upon impact.
The unique labradorescence effect is caused by minute, internal, layered structures called exsolution lamellae, which scatter light. Water, especially if it contains dissolved minerals or is acidic, can slowly penetrate the microscopic fissures and cleavage planes within the feldspar structure. Over time, this penetration can cause the stone to lose its inner luster, or schiller, and make the surface appear duller or chalky.
Safe Cleaning and Handling Practices
The safest and most effective method for cleaning Labradorite is gentle, non-abrasive dry cleaning. Start by wiping the stone with a soft, lint-free cloth, such as microfiber, to remove surface oils and dust collected from daily wear.
If a deeper clean is required, a mild solution of lukewarm water and a gentle, non-detergent soap can be used. The stone should be briefly wiped with a cloth dampened with this solution, focusing only on the soiled areas.
Post-Cleaning Care
Immediate and complete drying is the most important step after any liquid contact. Use a second, dry, soft cloth to gently pat the stone until all surface moisture is removed, particularly around any settings on jewelry.
Tools to Avoid
It is crucial to avoid harsh cleaning tools, such as stiff brushes, as these can scratch the stone’s surface. Chemical cleaning agents, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners must never be used, as the high heat, vibrations, and corrosive chemicals can cause irreversible internal damage and fracture the stone along its cleavage planes.
Protecting the Stone from Environmental Stressors
The stone should be protected from rapid and extreme temperature changes, which can cause thermal shock. A sudden shift from a cold environment to hot water, for instance, may exacerbate internal stress and lead to cracking along the existing cleavage planes.
When storing Labradorite, keep it away from other harder gemstones to prevent surface abrasion. A padded pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box is an ideal storage solution.
Direct, prolonged exposure to harsh household chemicals, including bleach, ammonia, and chlorine, should be avoided completely. These substances can etch the surface or react with the stone’s chemical components, potentially causing permanent damage to its optical properties.