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Labradorite can be identified by its labradorescence, or schiller effect iridescence. This means that it exhibits a brilliant play of color, often appearing as a blue or green sheen, or as a whole spectrum of colors, known as labradorescence, which is more highly valued. This phenomenon is caused by the diffraction of light in the layers of rock. Labradorite can also show adularescence, which is a white or bluish light seen when the stone is turned. This may lead labradorite to be falsely identified as moonstone. However, true moonstone has a lower density and monoclinic crystals.Labradorite is grey to grey-black with colorful iridescence, or spectral "labradorescence". This is a result of diffraction of light in the layers of rock. Popular colors are royal blue and multicolor. Labradorite can also be colorless, orange-red and brownish. The metallic tints of labradorite can show the full spectrum of color, especially in spectrolite, which is named after the full range of color that it exhibits.The lustrous metallic schiller in labradorite is caused by the diffraction of light in the layers of rock. When labradorite is exposed to light and viewed at different angles, the schiller can be seen in different colors. The spectral play of color is a result of tiny, desirable inclusions. Transparent to translucent labradorite with few inclusions usually appears blue. Usually, the higher the clarity, the less the play of color. Labradorite is a transparent to opaque material. The translucent gemstones are more desirable because they display the sought-after labradorescence. Labradorite that does not exhibit labradorescence can still make beautiful gemstones because of aventurescence, which is a shimmer caused by diffraction of light from mineral platelets.
