Comparison · Minerals vs Igneous Rocks
Labradorite vs Larvikite
Labradorite and Larvikite are easy to confuse. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Labradorite and Larvikite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Labradorite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Larvikite leaves white to light gray.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Labradorite is translucent, Larvikite is opaque.
- They overlap in gray and blue, but Labradorite also comes in green and yellow and Larvikite also comes in black and white.
Labradorite vs Larvikite properties
| Property | Labradorite | Larvikite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Igneous Rocks |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 6 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White to light gray |
| Transparency | translucent | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 | 2.75 |
| Crystal system | triclinic | varies |
| Common colors | Gray, Blue flash, Green flash, Gold flash | Dark gray, Blue gray, Black, Silver blue, White |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$300+ | $5–$300+ |
Which is more valuable?
Larvikite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $40 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Larvikite can reach $300 or more.
About Labradorite
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral famous for its stunning iridescent display called labradorescence, showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange.
About Larvikite
Larvikite is a feldspar-rich igneous rock famous for blue-silver flashes from feldspar crystals. It is often sold as decorative stone and can be confused with labradorite-bearing rocks.
Labradorite vs Larvikite FAQ
Is Labradorite the same as Larvikite?
No. Labradorite is a mineral while Larvikite is a igneous rock. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Labradorite from Larvikite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Labradorite leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Larvikite leaves white to light gray. Hold a thin edge to the light: Labradorite is translucent, Larvikite is opaque.
Which is harder, Labradorite or Larvikite?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 6.
Which is more valuable, Labradorite or Larvikite?
Larvikite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $40 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Larvikite can reach $300 or more.
