If you’re thinking about adding some Labradorite to your collection, you might wonder if it can get wet. We’ll cover that and more in this detailed article. In this article, you will learn everything there is to know about Labradorite, from how to care for it to whether or not it is water-resistant. So, if you are fascinated by this interesting gemstone, keep reading!
Can Labradorite Get Wet?
It is safe for labradorite to get wet. A few minutes of getting wet won’t harm the gemstone because it has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
However, prolonged submersion in water is not advised, as this could destroy the gem.
Taking a quick shower with your Labradorite gemstone is fine, as long as you don’t leave it submerged in water for long periods. Avoid using scrubs or other items that include salt and harsh chemicals since they may scratch the gemstone.
Now that you have the answer to this question, it’s time to delve into Labradorite gemstone and everything you need to know to maintain its quality.
What Is Labradorite?
Labradorite is a feldspathoid, a member of the plagioclase series of gemstones. Granite, basalt, and gneiss are a few examples of metamorphic rocks that include plagioclase gemstones.
The term “Labradorite” originates from the place of its initial discovery, the Canadian province of Labradorite, Newfoundland, Northeast Canada. Greenland, Scotland, Switzerland, Austria, Mexico, and Madagascar are a few further examples.
The labradorite mined in the Labrador region is renowned for its exceptional pleochroism. Exsolution lamellae provide a vivid iridescence or color play. Light interference on thin films, in this case, lamellae of differing chemical compositions, causes iridescence. This effect results from brilliant colors in soap bubbles, oil films on water, and other similar phenomena.
What To Look For When Choosing Labradorite
Iridescence
To describe the unique iridescence of fine labradorite gemstones, the term “labradorescence” is used.
The iridescence in labradorite gives the stone its vitality and energy, despite its dark body tone. Labradorite’s color iridescence results from the mineral’s formation structure. Light diffracted by these layers reveals the hues beneath. Labradorite can be found in various colors, although the most common are blue, brown, and blazing orange.
This quality is what sets labradorite apart from other stones. However, many labradorites lack labradorescence, making them difficult to distinguish from other plagioclase minerals. A stunning color or aventurescence, a blue or white shine that appears as the stone is seen from different angles, can still make these stones desirable.
Color
Labradorite has a body color of gray, black, or dark brown with green, blue, and purple labradorescence. Spectrolite exhibits the Schiller effect, which manifests as bursts of color in hues as varied as blue, green, red, orange, and yellow.
Unlike most other colorful gemstones, the colors seen in labradorite are not inherent to the stone itself. Instead, this is caused by the interaction of light with flaws in the mineral.
Clarity
Inclusions or impurities within a gemstone are typically considered defects that lower the stone’s value. For labradorites, however, it is the presence of these minute impurities that are responsible for the gemstone’s unique color play. The spectral colors emerge as light passes through successive layers of microscopic contaminants.
Although most examples of labradorite are opaque or translucent, clear examples exist. In contrast, opaque labradorites don’t show off their labradorescence much. This is why transparent gems are so popular. Because of the lack of labradorescence in transparent labradorites, they are not much sought.
Cut
Labradorites can have their iridescence enhanced through skilled cutting. The stone’s multi-layered composition requires precise cutting to expose the most vibrant colors on the top surface.
Beaded cabochons with flat tops are the standard shape for Labradorites. Transparent labradorite is typically faceted to maximize its brilliance. Labradorite is generally found in rounded, oval, pear, and marquise shapes and less frequently in equilateral or other angular cuts.
Carat
There is a wide range of sizes available for labradorites. In contrast to other precious stones, the size of this one has less of an impact on its value. The size you select is entirely up to you.
Rather than emphasizing the labradorite’s carat weight, most stores emphasize its breadth and length. You can now determine the actual size of the gem. Because the density of different gemstones varies widely, this universal measurement system is more useful.
How To Clean Labradorite
The surface of your labradorite can be cleaned with damp cotton or microfiber cloth; afterward, pat it dry to ensure there is no trace of moisture.
Do not use harsh chemicals, including alcohol or acid, to clean the area. Adding some natural soap to the wet cloth will make it much more effective at cleaning the surface.
The labradorite in your jewelry can be scratched if stored in a drawer or box with other labradorite, so keep them apart. Furthermore, certain labradorite hues might be diminished if exposed to too much sunlight, so keep them in a dark, cool place. Keep your jewelry in soft cloth packaging while not in use.
Is Labradorite Used In Jewelry?
Labradorite can be used in a variety of jewelry settings. It may breathe new life into your closet and give your outfit an exciting splash of color. Setting a Labradorite in yellow or rose gold makes it stand out even more beautifully, although it looks great in any metal. For a sophisticated aesthetic, the blue-green tones of labradorite go beautifully with the silver and gold tones of the metals.
Custom jewelry made with labradorite is reasonably priced since the gemstone is so readily available. It is particularly interesting for use in bold, statement necklaces and cocktail rings.
Putting your labradorite in a sophisticated set of earrings is a terrific way to show it off. Whether you choose to wear them as dangling earrings or as plain studs, these will complement any outfit and elevate your look to the next level. Labradorite dangle earrings are a great choice for a more formal evening look due to the way the stone catches and refracts light. This enhancement will make you shine and shimmer even more.
Due to the variety of sizes available, labradorite may be used to create statement rings that are both striking and unique. If you like pendants, labradorite pendants are wonderful everyday jewelry. A little pendant is a perfect accessory when dressing casually or for business.