Comparison · Gemstones vs Minerals
Ammolite vs Labradorite
Ammolite and Labradorite are easy to confuse. Ammolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Labradorite (Mohs 6), so Ammolite will scratch Labradorite and not the other way round. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Ammolite and Labradorite
- Ammolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Labradorite (Mohs 6), so Ammolite will scratch Labradorite and not the other way round. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will.
- Streak color differs: Ammolite leaves a white to light-colored streak on unglazed porcelain, Labradorite leaves white.
Ammolite vs Labradorite properties
| Property | Ammolite | Labradorite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Gemstones | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 6 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White to light-colored | White |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 3 | 2.7 |
| Crystal system | varies | triclinic |
| Common colors | Various | Gray, Blue flash, Green flash, Gold flash |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $10–$500+ | $5–$300+ |
Which is more valuable?
Ammolite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $75 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Ammolite can reach $500 or more.
About Ammolite
Ammolite is organic gemstone formed when it mixes with fossilized shell of extinct marine ammonite.
About Labradorite
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral famous for its stunning iridescent display called labradorescence, showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange.
Ammolite vs Labradorite FAQ
Is Ammolite the same as Labradorite?
No. Ammolite is a gemstone while Labradorite is a mineral. Ammolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Labradorite (Mohs 6), so Ammolite will scratch Labradorite and not the other way round. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will.
How can you tell Ammolite from Labradorite?
Ammolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Labradorite (Mohs 6), so Ammolite will scratch Labradorite and not the other way round. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will. Streak color differs: Ammolite leaves a white to light-colored streak on unglazed porcelain, Labradorite leaves white.
Which is harder, Ammolite or Labradorite?
Ammolite is harder: Mohs 7 against Mohs 6 for Labradorite.
Which is more valuable, Ammolite or Labradorite?
Ammolite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $75 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Ammolite can reach $500 or more.
