Labradorite, with its stunning iridescent play of color, is a highly sought-after gemstone. Unfortunately, its popularity has led to a rise in counterfeits. Knowing how to identify genuine labradorite is crucial to avoid purchasing a fake. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently distinguish real labradorite from its imitations.
Understanding the Unique Properties of Real Labradorite
Before we delve into spotting fakes, let's understand what makes real labradorite unique. Its characteristic labradorescence – that mesmerizing, shimmering display of color – is the key identifier. This optical phenomenon is caused by the internal structure of the stone and isn't easily replicated.
Key Characteristics of Genuine Labradorite:
- Labradorescence: The most important characteristic. Look for a vibrant, shifting display of colors, often blues, greens, golds, and reds. The colors should appear to move and change as you tilt the stone.
- Play of Color: The color should be internal to the stone, not just a surface coating. This is a crucial distinction from many fakes.
- Hardness: Labradorite has a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5. While not the hardest stone, it shouldn't be easily scratched by a steel knife.
- Transparency/Translucency: While some labradorite can be opaque, many specimens show some degree of translucency, allowing light to pass through the edges.
- Inclusion: Natural labradorite often contains inclusions – small imperfections within the stone. These are a sign of authenticity. Perfectly flawless specimens should raise suspicion.
Common Ways to Identify Fake Labradorite
Now let's explore the tell-tale signs of a fake.
1. Lack of Labradorescence or Weak Play of Color:
A dull, lifeless stone lacking the vibrant, shifting colors characteristic of labradorite is almost certainly a fake. The play of color should be strong and noticeable, not subtle or muted. Many imitations offer only a faint shimmer or a static color.
2. Surface Coating:
Some fakes are simply dyed or coated to mimic the appearance of labradorite. Examine the stone closely. If the color seems to be only on the surface and doesn't penetrate the stone, it's likely a fake. A magnifying glass can help you detect this.
3. Uniformity:
Genuine labradorite rarely shows perfect uniformity in its color and pattern. A perfectly consistent, flawless stone is highly suspicious and more likely to be a synthetic or imitation.
4. Suspiciously Low Price:
Labradorite, especially high-quality specimens with intense labradorescence, can be relatively expensive. If the price is significantly lower than expected, be wary. This is a strong indicator of a fake.
5. Hardness Test (Caution!):
While not recommended for valuable stones, a gentle scratch test with a steel pin on an inconspicuous area might be helpful with lower-value pieces. If the stone scratches easily, it's likely not labradorite.
Where to Buy Authentic Labradorite
To minimize the risk of purchasing fake labradorite, buy from reputable sources.
- Reputable Jewelers: Seek out established jewelers with a good reputation for selling authentic gemstones.
- Gem Shows: Gem and mineral shows can be a great place to find genuine labradorite, as you can often speak to the source.
- Online Retailers with Strong Reviews: When buying online, choose retailers with positive reviews and clear return policies.
Conclusion: Be a Discerning Buyer
Learning to identify fake labradorite takes practice and attention to detail. By understanding its unique properties and the common signs of counterfeits, you can make informed purchases and enjoy the beauty of this truly remarkable gemstone. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
