Labradorite

Labradorite is one of our favorite feldspar minerals. Although labradorite has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which is softer than quartz, it is a durable material. This is thought to be because labradorite is not brittle. Labradorite can be easily scratched by harder substances, so it should be stored away from other gemstones.
The flash of color that labradorite displays is an iridescent optical effect (or schiller) known as labradorescence. 

When viewed at certain angles, labradorite exhibits such captivating color that Inuit legends say that the Northern Lights shone down on the shores of Labrador and were captured inside these colorful stones. The most highly valued labradorite is material that shows the full spectrum of color in its labradorescence.
Labradorite is mostly cut into cabochons or into fancy shapes for pendants. Wire wrappers like this stone in many shapes. This is because cabochons maximize the iridescence. However, transparent gemstones can be faceted. Labradorite can also be cut into spherical shapes for beaded jewelry.
Spectroite is a rare labradorite from Finland. It is known for displaying a beautiful spectral play of color, hence the name, "spectrolite".

Andesine-labradorite is created by enhancing the color of labradorite.  

• Spiritual: reflection, truth
• Soul: sharpens intuition, gives emotional depth and mediumistic abilities
• Mind: brings forgotten memories to light and helps recognize illusions
• Body: reduces sensitivity to cold and blood pressure and alleviates rheumatism and gout