By Chisom Ibemere
Spectrolite is an uncommon type of feldspar mineral and belongs to the labradorite family. It is known for its iridescent play of colors, similar to that of opal.
It was discovered in Finland in the 1940s and is mainly found in the Ylämaa region of Finland.
The primary source of high-quality Spectrolite is Finland. The stone occurs in specific rock types called anorthosites, which are rich in labradorite feldspar.
Its deposits can also be found in other countries such as Madagascar, Russia, China, and the United States. However, Finnish Spectrolite is considered the most valuable and sought after.
Spectrolite application is in the creation of jewelry. Its beautiful colors and iridescence make it a popular choice for unique and eye-catching pieces.
It is majorly fashioned into cabochons for use in rings, pendants, bracelets, and earrings. Spectrolite is also sometimes used in decorative objects and carvings.
The most striking feature of Spectrolite is its play of colors, which includes a range of hues like blue, green, purple, and gold. This features is caused by light interference within the stone’s internal structure. It has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it moderately durable and suitable for jewelry.
It ranges from translucent to opaque, depending on the clarity and quality of the stone. It is typically available in smaller sizes suitable for jewelry, but larger pieces can also be found.
Spectrolite from Finland is highly regarded for its exceptional play of colors and is often considered more valuable than other labradorite varieties. The value of Spectrolite is influenced by factors such as color intensity, clarity, size, and overall appearance.
The most desirable specimens with intense and vibrant colors can command higher prices in the market. The scarcity and uniqueness of Finnish Spectrolite contribute to its global value.
Generally, spectrolite is a captivating gemstone known for its iridescent play of colors. Its rarity and beauty make it a favored material for jewelry, particularly in Finland where it originates. Due to its limited supply, high-quality Spectrolite can be a valuable addition to a gemstone collection.