Labradorite, with its stunning iridescent play of color, is a highly sought-after gemstone. Unfortunately, its popularity has led to a surge in counterfeit stones flooding the market. Learning to identify genuine labradorite is crucial for ensuring you're getting the real deal and not wasting your money. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to distinguish authentic labradorite from its imitations.
Key Characteristics of Genuine Labradorite
Before we delve into spotting fakes, let's understand what makes real labradorite unique. Its defining characteristic is labradorescence: a shimmering, iridescent display of colors that seem to shift and change as you move the stone. This optical phenomenon is caused by the internal structure of the mineral.
1. The Play of Color: The Defining Feature
Authentic labradorite exhibits a vibrant, intense play of color. This isn't a simple shine; it's a complex interplay of blues, greens, golds, and reds, often described as a "flash" or "fire." Imitations often have a duller, less vibrant, or more uniform shimmer. Look for depth and complexity in the color shift.
2. The Hardness and Durability: A Test of Authenticity
Labradorite has a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5. This means it's relatively durable but not indestructible. While not easily scratched by everyday materials, excessively soft or easily scratched stones are likely imitations. A gentle scratch test (using a piece of glass) can be revealing, but proceed with caution and only on an inconspicuous area.
3. Transparency and Inclusions: Clues from Within
Genuine labradorite is often translucent to opaque. While completely clear labradorite is rare, you should see some depth within the stone. Pay close attention to inclusions: small imperfections within the stone. These are natural and often contribute to the stone's unique character. Perfectly flawless stones are more likely to be synthetic or imitation.
4. The Price Point: Beware of Deals That Are Too Good to Be True
High-quality labradorite, especially larger pieces with exceptional labradorescence, can be relatively expensive. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of excessively low prices, especially from unverified sellers.
Common Imitations and How to Spot Them
Several materials are often passed off as labradorite. Here are some common imitations:
- Glass: Glass imitations often lack the depth and complexity of labradorescence found in genuine labradorite. They may have a uniform, almost plastic-like shimmer.
- Dyed materials: Some stones are dyed to mimic labradorite's colors. These often have an unnatural, overly intense, or uneven coloration.
- Synthetic labradorite: While technically labradorite, synthetic stones are created in a lab and often lack the character and inclusions of natural stones. They may appear too perfect.
Where to Buy Authentic Labradorite
To minimize the risk of purchasing fake labradorite, buy from reputable sources:
- Reputable jewelers: Jewelers with a good reputation are more likely to sell authentic gemstones.
- Gem and mineral shows: These events often feature vendors who specialize in authentic gemstones.
- Online marketplaces with seller ratings: When buying online, check seller ratings and reviews carefully.
Conclusion: Invest in Knowledge, Invest in Authenticity
Learning to identify fake labradorite requires careful observation and attention to detail. By understanding the key characteristics of authentic labradorite and being aware of common imitations, you can confidently make informed purchases and add a genuine piece of this beautiful gemstone to your collection. Remember, a little knowledge goes a long way in protecting your investment!
