Labradorite, Matte, Nice Grey-Blue Nuggets, One 12x9x5.5mm Strand

Labradorite Nuggets, Natural, Matte Finish, Nice Grey-Blue

Approximately 32 pieces with average size of 12x9x5.5mm 

Labradorite is a feldspar mineral that is most often found in igneous rocks. What sets the stone apart from other semi-precious stones are the multicolor streaks inside. The minor fractures within the stone reflect light in a way that is bounced back at different wavelengths. This reflection at varying wavelengths is what brings out the beautiful colors and give it the amazing iridescence. Lapidaries must do a careful study of the material so that the finished stone will be oriented to produce the best full "face-up color." When cut correctly for proper angle, high quality material displays a bright flash of color(s).

Labradorite generally has a gray-green, dark gray, black or grayish-white base while having streaks of peacock blue, copper, gold, and light green. 

Labradorite was first discovered in Labrador, Canada. The ancient Inuit’s there believed that Labradorite was the frozen fire of the Aurora Borealis. Other deposits of the mineral have been found in Newfoundland, Finland, Russia, Ukraine, and Madagascar.

Hardness 6-6.5

These beads are cut, drilled and polished in China.

This is a natural stone that has had no treatment other than cutting, drilling, and polishing, and includes the matte treatment described below. 

Matte beads have a velvety or frosted surface, rather than a shiny or reflective surface.  These stones undergo additional tumbling that require knowledge of the material and skill.  Each stone type requires a different amount of time in the tumbler depending on the material's hardness and characteristics.  The matte finish also creates a variation in color from the traditional finish of the bead.