Labradorite is a semi-precious stone with shimmering luster. The metallic sheen is the distinctive feature of the Labradorite. Some sellers may sell you a different stone with the Labradorite label.
You can avoid this scam by learning how to tell if Labradorite is real or fake. We will help you in the learning process by providing a comprehensive guide for Labradorite identification.
Are the Methods for Testing the Authenticity of Celestite the Same as Those for Labradorite?
When it comes to telling real vs fake celestite versus labradorite, the methods for testing their authenticity differ.
While labradorite is often tested using specific light and angle techniques to check for its characteristic iridescence, celestite is typically evaluated based on its density, cleavage, and crystal structure.
How to Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake?
The best way to tell if Labradorite is real or fake is by observing its physical features. You can check the distinctive shine of the Labradorite to find its authenticity. Clarity can also give you a hint about Labradorite authenticity.
Some sellers also have certificates of authenticity.
Asking for a certificate of authenticity is the best way to find the crystal identity.
1. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Check for Labradorescence
You can identify the Labradorite with the presence of the Schiller effect. T
his effect is due to the Labradorite’s chemical composition and physical properties.
You can see a rainbow-like color on the Labradorite.
This color originates from the deeper layers of the crystal.
It does not appear from the surface of the crystal.
There are twin crystalline structures in the Labradorite.
The light reflects to change to different wavelengths in the crystal.
A part of the crystal structure reflects the light in the same direction.
It gives a rainbow-like appearance on the stone’s surface.
You will observe different colorations with different crystal structures.
This phenomenon is known as labradorescence.
People like to buy the Labradorite because of this feature.
You will see black veins on the Labradorite’s surface.
If you have a synthetic or enhanced Labradorite, you will not observe labradorescence and black veins.
2. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Check for Clarity
Most gemstones have a high value when they do not have flaws.
It is not the case with the Labradorite.
Labradorites do not have a clear surface as blemishes are a crucial part of them.
These crystals have a high value when they have many flaws and markings.
You can get Labradorite with high or low transparency.
People give more value to the Labradorite, reflecting more light and giving a rainbow-like coloring.
You can check the clarity by placing the Labradorite between your eyes and the light source.
You can get the estimate of the Labradorite worth by checking the clarity.
3. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Observe the Color
It is better to learn how to tell if Labradorite is real or fake with color differences.
It is a better way to identify counterfeit Labradorite crystals.
Many sellers make counterfeit Labradorite stones due to their color scheme.
Authentic Labradorite changes the color shade when you look from a different angle.
You will see dull color from one direction.
It may change the color to pink or blue when you change the direction.
This feature is absent in the counterfeit Labradorite stones.
Many experts suggest you visit the store with high-quality gems to find Labradorite appearance information.
It is also possible to find pictures of Labradorites online and train your eyes for their physical features.
You can observe the stone in the sunlight as the sunlight enhances the shimmering effects of the Labradorite.
It is better to get help from an expert if the seller gives you a Labradorite stone with static color.
A gemologist can help you confirm the crystal identity.
4. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Check the Cutting Quality
You can estimate the quality of the Labradorit stone with the cutting quality.
Jewelers cut the Labradorite stones to boost the stone’s shine.
The cutter wants to allow maximum shine from the Labradorite surface.
Some jewelers make faceted stones to enhance the light reflection abilities of the crystal.
You may not find oval, round, and spherical Labradorite stones in the market as these shapes reduce the light reflection.
If a seller gives you Labradorite with an unusual shape, you should think twice before buying it as it can be a counterfeit crystal.
5. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Ask Seller for Certificates
You can ask the seller for the authenticity certificate from an international organization.
Most high-quality Labradorite crystal sellers keep these certificates to give confidence to people buying these stones.
There is no need to worry about asking for the authenticity certificate as sellers also know that most people cannot identify the authentic crystals.
Having an authenticity certificate will increase the chances of a stone sale.
Some authenticity certificates are verifiable on the organization’s website.
You can take the seller’s reference number and check their certificate’s authenticity on the organization’s website.
You may also find information about the quality and authenticity of the stone on the same website.
It is better to keep this information with you to care for the stone better and find the authentic Labradorite crystals.
6. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Observe Labradorite Color Enhancements
Color enhancements can reduce the gem price because you need to take extra care of the gems with the color enhancements.
Some sellers use oil or wax to enhance the colors.
It can also give more shine to the stones.
It is better to avoid these stones as they may lose their shine after some time.
It is better to ask the seller if the stone has a layer of wax or oil.
You can get a better price estimate when you know the type of enhancements sellers did to improve the stone’s appearance.
7. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Check Labradorite鈥檚 Price
The value of the Labradorite depends on its color and shine.
A stone with bright colors and more shine will sell at a higher price.
Most Labradorite stones have a blue color.
It is available abundantly and has a lower price.
All the Labradorite stones with other colors sell at a higher price due to rarity.
If a seller is giving a Labradorite stone with a color other than blue at a lower price.
You can consult with a gemologist.
There are higher chances of getting counterfeit stones at a lower price.
You should expect to pay more than forty dollars for one carat of high-quality Labradorite stone.
These Labradorite stones should have a gray or black color with many veins on the crystal surface.
8. To Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake, Check the Place of Origin
Most Labradorites come from Canada.
It is not the only source for these stones.
You can find them in many places worldwide.
Madagascar, Australia, and United States have some sources of the Labradorite.
Most high-quality deposits are in Madagascar, where you can find the pink and purple Labradorites.
Spectrolite is the highest quality Labradorite.
It shows a full spectrum of light colors.
You can get these stones in Finland.
You can ask for the origin of the stone to confirm the stone’s identity.
If a seller gives wrong information, you can go to another seller to buy Labradorite.
To Summarize: How to Tell if Labradorite is Real or Fake
Some Labradorite stones can sell for a higher price as they are in high demand.
Sellers try to take advantage of the beginner stone collectors by giving them synthetic products.
It is better to keep these points in mind when buying Labradorite.
- You can identify the Labradorite by labradorescence on the stone’s deep layers.
- Counterfeit Labradorite stones have one color shade.
- You can ask for an authenticity certificate if you are unsure about the stone’s authenticity.
- Asking for origin information can give hints about the stone’s identity.