When you browse the Labradorite Pendant collection on Floating Lotus, you’re drawn to the shimmering flashes of colour, the deep iridescence, and the promise of owning a piece of genuine gemstone artistry. But how can you be confident that the piece you choose is truly a high-quality piece of genuine labradorite jewelry and not a convincing imitation or low-grade substitute?
In this article we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what makes real labradorite special, what red flags to watch for, practical tests you can do, and how to buy with confidence. By the end you’ll feel empowered to shop the labradorite collection wisely and pick a piece you’ll cherish for years.
What is real labradorite and what sets it apart?
The gemstone known as labradorite belongs to the feldspar group of minerals, and it’s prized especially for its optical phenomenon called labradorescence. Under light, genuine labradorite exhibits a striking flash of colour often blues, greens, golds or even purples and pinks caused by the internal structure of the mineral reflecting light in a particular way.
In the context of jewelry particularly a labradorite pendant what matters is a stone that displays that colour flash, has a solid base colour (often grey, green-grey, or dark) and visible internal structure (inclusions, fractures, layering) rather than being entirely flawless.
Because of its visual appeal and metaphysical reputation, labradorite is widely used in jewellery and fashion accessories. That demand means there are many stones and settings out there, but not all are equally genuine or well-made. The term “genuine labradorite jewelry” should mean: a piece in which the labradorite is truly natural (or at least disclosed if treated), cut and set well, and sold by a seller who stands behind the quality.
1. Look for the signature flash the “labradorescence”
One of the best and most accessible tests for a labradorite pendant (or any labradorite jewellery) is to observe how it responds to light.
· Pick the piece up and rotate it under a good light source. A real labradorite should display flashes of colour blues, greens, golds, possibly purples as the angle changes. If the stone looks entirely dull or the colours don’t shift, that’s a red flag.
· Be aware that not the entire surface will always flash. Many genuine stones have areas that are more muted or appear grey-base when viewed at certain angles. That is normal.
· Conversely, if the stone shows an overly uniform or metallic flash (as though it were coated or artificially enhanced), be cautious. Real labradorite often has a varied flash, sometimes subtle layering, rather than “neon” flat colour across the whole stone.
When shopping for your pendant, ask the seller for images or even a short video of the stone being rotated under light. This helps you see the flash in action. Also look for descriptions that mention labradorescence or “flash of colour” rather than simply “sparkle”.
2. Examine the base colour, surface texture, and inclusions
Beyond the flash, genuine labradorite jewelry will also show certain natural features you want them, not hide them.
· The base colour of real labradorite is typically grey, dark grey-green, or blackish. If the stone is very light, or the base colour is very bright or uniform, that can be suspicious.
· Real labradorite tends to have internal layers, visible veining, small fractures or inclusions. These features allow the light to refract and create the flash. Stones that are entirely flawless, especially at a low price, may be synthetic or dyed.
· The surface texture should feel solid and “stone-like” rather than plastic or resin. For a good setting in jewellery, the cut and polish will bring out the flash but you should still be able to see natural lines or layering under close inspection.
When evaluating a labradorite pendant, check the stone under a bright light (natural daylight is ideal). If you see tiny cracks, layering, or slight irregularities, that often indicates a natural stone. If it looks too perfect, ask for more details or certification.
3. Feel the weight, coolness, and hardness
Although buying online often means you can’t physically handle the piece first, understanding these tactile cues can help you ask better questions and sense whether a listing is too good to be true.
· Genuine labradorite has a density and weight consistent with a stone of its size it should feel heavier than plastic or resin. Some buyers have noted that lightweight stone imitations feel off.
· Real labradorite tends to stay cool to the touch longer than synthetic materials or plastic imitations. If it warms up quickly in your hand, that might be a warning.
· On the Mohs hardness scale, labradorite is around 6 to 6.5. That means it can be scratched by harder materials like quartz or a steel blade, but it won’t be easily etched by everyday contact. If the stone scratches too easily in normal wear or appears too soft, you might not have genuine labradorite.
If you’re purchasing in-person, you might gently compare the piece with a known genuine stone or a comparable piece of jewellery. Online, check for seller descriptions that explicitly mention “natural stone,” “hardness,” or “untreated,” and view close-up images.
4. Ask about origin, treatment, certification and seller reputation
Even if a stone looks like genuine labradorite, smart buyers go a step further and verify the back-story and seller details. These help establish trust and long-term value.
· Origin matters. Labradorite is mined in several well-known locations (for example, Canada, Finland, Madagascar, Russia). Knowing where the stone comes from can help you gauge value and authenticity.
· Treatment-disclosure is critical. Some stones may be dyed, coated, or altered to enhance colour. Genuine labradorite is often sold untreated or if treated, the seller must disclose it. If you see no mention of treatment, ask.
· Certification matters especially for larger, high value pieces. A gem-lab report or certificate of authenticity can provide extra assurance. Even if a certificate is not provided, a credible seller should be responsive, transparent, and able to explain the stone’s details.
· Seller reputation is part of authenticity. Read reviews, ask for additional photographs from different angles, check return policy, and see whether the product description aligns with what you see. A labradorite pendant is only as good as its setting and craftsmanship. A trustworthy retailer will treat you as an informed buyer rather than hide behind jargon.
So when you browse the labradorite collection, look for descriptions that mention “sourced from”, “untreated”, “certificate available on request”, or “hand-selected labradorite.” Those help signal a serious piece of genuine labradorite jewelry.
5. Evaluate price, craftsmanship and the setting
Understanding the market value and how the piece is made also helps you avoid being deceived or disappointed.
· While labradorite is not among the most expensive gemstones like diamond or ruby, high quality labradorite with strong labradorescence and excellent cut will carry a decent price. If you see a large pendant with vivid flash at a suspiciously low price, pause and ask questions.
· Craftsmanship matters. A well-made labradorite pendant will allow the stone’s flash to show, will have a setting that complements rather than masks the stone, and will secure the stone properly. Flimsy or generic settings may mean the seller is cutting corners.
· Good photographs help. Ask for close-up images of the stone in different angles, in natural daylight, and with scale. If the images look heavily filtered or the listings make sweeping claims with little detail, remain cautious.
By combining a realistic understanding of value good craftsmanship the right stone quality, you’re far more likely to end up with genuine labradorite jewelry rather than a disappointing imitation.
6. Care and usage of genuine labradorite jewelry
Once you’ve purchased a genuine labradorite pendant, proper care ensures its beauty lasts and that it continues to feel special every time you put it on.
· Clean gently: Use lukewarm water and a mild soap, rinse, and pat dry with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals or steam cleaning, as these can damage the stone’s surface or setting.
· Storage: Store your labradorite jewellery separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches. A soft pouch or compartment in a jewellery box works well.
· Wear mindfully: Since labradorite is rated around 6-6.5 hardness, it is suitable for everyday wear but avoid extreme knocks or heavy abrasion.
· Re-check setting: Especially with pendants, check the bail or loop regularly so the stone remains secure.
· Keep the flash alive: Avoid storing in extreme sunlight for prolonged periods. The flash effect relies on the internal structure and layers; while sunlight won’t “kill” it, extreme conditions may alter the appearance over time.
When you wear excellent genuine labradorite jewelry, you’ll notice how the stone seems to come alive when you move, catching light and offering glimpses of colour. That experience is part of what makes labradorite sought after and part of why authenticity matters.
Summary: How to buy with confidence
When you want to invest in a piece of genuine labradorite jewelry such as a stunning labradorite pendant, here’s a quick checklist:
· Ensure the stone displays labradorescence (shifting flashes of colour) and inspect it under good light.
· Look for a natural base colour, internal inclusions or layering, and avoid overly perfect or synthetic-looking stones.
· Ask about weight, feel, and hardness if possible (or compare to known references).
· Confirm origin, treatment, certificate (if applicable), and buy from a seller with transparency and good reviews.
· Assess price vs quality: very low price for high flash may indicate a compromise.
· Evaluate craftsmanship: the setting should enhance the stone, not hide it.
· Once purchased, care for your piece thoughtfully so it remains beautiful and authentic over time.
By following these steps, you position yourself to purchase a piece that is truly genuine, visually beautiful, and emotionally meaningful. A high-quality labradorite pendant becomes more than just an accessory it becomes a piece you are proud to wear, knowing the gemstone is real and the craftsmanship is sound.
Comments