Labradorite takes its name from Labrador, Newfoundland, where it was first discovered. Legend says, an Inuit warrior once set out to find the northern lights, which had gone missing from the night sky. He walked for miles till he came to a shoreline where he found some glimmering rocks. With a thrust of his spear, he broke the rocks open and released the Aurora back into the sky. The rocks that remained unbroken still contained the northern lights in them, and this is what gives labradorite its iridescent glow.
The Inuit tribes placed great significance on the crystal, referring to it as ‘fire rock’. They believed it could cure any sickness or ailment. They even fashioned amulets out of it that helped ease anxiety, believing the crystals to be imbued with the powers of their ancestors. Moravian missionaries brought the stone to Europe in the 18th century where it soon became popular. In France and England especially, it was highly valued and often used to fashion intricate ornaments and for engraving. Other than being used in jewelry, the labradorite crystal also aids in the production of glass and ceramics.
Labradorite is called the stone of magic, because of its close association with the Aurora and the heavens. It is a stone of insight and reflection which helps activate innate spiritual power. It helps in the regeneration of energy, while the body and spirit are healing themselves. The labradorite crystal also provides a protective aura against negative energies while subduing negativity in the self. With its many changing colors, the stone is also associated with transformation, aiding in endeavors of growth and purpose.
The labradorite crystal is associated with the throat and third eye chakra and as such, helps with respiratory problems. It also aids in digestion and metabolism. Simply holding the gem in one’s hand aids in breathing and meditation.