Labradorite Elephant | Orange-Pink Flash

What Creates the Pink-Orange Flash in Labradorite?

Labradorite is a variety of plagioclase feldspar famous for its iridescent optical effect known as labradorescence. This colour flash is not a surface coating, but is created by light interacting with microscopic internal layers within the crystal.

Most Labradorite displays blue, green, or golden flashes, while strong orange, peach, pink, or violet tones are less commonly seen and are especially prized for their warmth and softness. These colours appear only when the crystal is angled correctly in light, which is why Labradorite can look dark or grey from one direction and suddenly reveal brilliant colour from another.

The pink-orange flash in this piece reflects the unique internal structure of the feldspar, where tiny layered formations scatter and reflect light in different colours. Each Labradorite has its own pattern of flash, making every carving or crystal naturally individual.