Gemstone profile and identification guide
Spectrolite
Spectrolite is a labradorite variety known for strong multicolor labradorescence.
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Overview
Spectrolite is a labradorite variety known for strong multicolor labradorescence.
Did you know? Spectrolite became prominent from Finnish discoveries during the 20th century.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Spectrolite
Scientific classification: Silicate (Labradorite Variety: Spectrolite)
Hardness: 6 Mohs
Transparency: opaque
Lustre: vitreous
Crystal system: Triclinic
Primary colour: Dark Grey
Secondary colour: Multicolor Flash
Colour family: Whites & Neutrals
Dark body and strong spectral flash characterize spectrolite-type material.
Verification Status
Status: verified-core-fields
Reference priority: GIA, Gem-A, Mindat, International Gem Society
Core identity, locality, and physical-property fields reviewed against standard gemological references.
Trade-name and treatment-sensitive entries include explicit disclosure notes where applicable.
Physical Properties
Hardness category: hard
Hardness value: 6 Mohs
Chemical composition: Sodium-calcium feldspar (labradorite composition)
Crystal system: Triclinic
Common locations: Finland (classic), with related labradorescent feldspar elsewhere
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Dark feldspar with intense full-spectrum labradorescent flashes.
Optical effects: Labradorescence
Detailed Gemology
Mineral species: Labradorite (spectrolite variety)
Mineral group: Feldspar group
Chemical formula: Sodium-calcium feldspar (labradorite composition)
Mohs hardness: 6
Crystal system: Triclinic
Lustre: vitreous
Transparency: opaque
Streak: White
Cleavage: Perfect in two directions
Fracture: Uneven
Specific gravity: 2.68-2.74
Refractive index: 1.56-1.57
Optical phenomena: Labradorescence
Colour range: Dark grey base with blue/green/yellow/orange flashes
Common inclusions: Lamination and cleavage traces
Geological environment: Igneous plagioclase-rich rocks
Principal mining regions: Finland (classic), with related labradorescent feldspar elsewhere
Important commercial sources: Spectrolite is classically associated with Finnish labradorite deposits
Historical significance: Important high-flash feldspar in collector and jewelry markets.
Common treatments: Generally untreated.
Synthetic or imitation forms: Coated glass and synthetic imitations exist.
Common look-alikes: Common labradorite, rainbow moonstone trade stones
Jewellery uses: Used in cabochons, carvings, and statement jewelry.
Care recommendations: Moderate hardness with cleavage; avoid impact and sharp blows.
Cross-check profile data with GIA Gem Encyclopedia and Mindat entry for Spectrolite.
Formation
Feldspar exsolution lamellae create interference colors under light.
Origin
Spectrolite is classically associated with Finnish labradorite deposits
Uses
Best for: Used in cabochons, carvings, and statement jewelry.
Ideal uses: Cabochons showing broad-spectrum flash.
Care
Moderate hardness with cleavage; avoid impact and sharp blows.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
Related gemstones by colour
Related gemstones by hardness
Commonly confused gemstones
Spectrolite FAQ
How can I identify Spectrolite?
Compare hardness (6 Mohs), crystal system (Triclinic), colour profile, and lustre (vitreous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Spectrolite appear in?
Dark feldspar with intense full-spectrum labradorescent flashes.
Where is Spectrolite commonly used?
Cabochons showing broad-spectrum flash.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
GIA: general gemstone identity (reviewed) - Batch 08 factual verification pass.
Gem-A: gemological terminology and testing references (reviewed) - Batch 08 factual verification pass.
Mindat: mineral species and principal localities (reviewed) - Batch 08 factual verification pass.
International Gem Society: gem trade context and treatment overview (reviewed) - Batch 08 factual verification pass.