Finnish Spectrolite History - A plagioclase feldspar in the same family as Labradorite and moonstone, displaying with intense reds, oranges and yellows as well as blues and greens. Spectrolite is found only in Finland. Spectrolite was discovered quite by accident in 1940 during the Second World War, when stone was being quarried Finland's eastern border for the purpose of making antitank obstacles, which makes it a more recent discovery than the well-known Labradorite from Canada and Madagascar. I find it divine that this light came into the world at such a dark time. Spectrolite reminds us of this as it goes dark and then, flashes it's light at us. Spectrolite is a very high grade of dark based labradorite found only in Finland. The name "Spectrolite" is a trade name given to this material by the Finns, and only this material can truly be called Spectrolite.

The Spectrolite is regarded by gemmologists as the world's most beautiful labradorite. What's the difference between Spectrolite & Labradorite? Spectrolite comes only from Finland; the play of color is always in a black to very dark grey base material. It is a 'high end' material, usually selling in the rough by the gram. Spectrolite in it's highest grades rivals the best Australian Opal. A cabochon from 4mm to 25mm has a value (in Miller/Sinkankas Catalog of Gem Values, 1994) of between $10-$225 per carat. (blue is the most common 'play of color' in Spectrolite). Red or magenta( which is called red) Spectrolite is listed as having a value of $175 per carat. Royal purple seems to be equally rare. Prices vary based on the quality, cut and color of the stone. Fine cracks and matrix lower the value, but the reds and purples will always be the most sought after.

Labradorite, on the other hand, comes from Labrador or Madagascar. The labradorescence is found in a paler, light grey/green matrix; in the Gem Values book (1994) the value of a 7-30 mm labradorite cabochon was listed at $5 - $30.

The pictures of my Spectrolite are 'true'. You will get the astounding color flashes pretty much as you see it in these photos or better. Of course, there are positions in which you'll barely see this "Schiller Effect". This one reason why I offer a full refund guarantee on ALL my gems. Spectrolite is "oriented along the plane of color. Any photographer is going to try to show their gem at it's best, but the color flows around this stone and it is sometimes completely black. It needs bright light to show the color fully! It is VERY difficult to cut, grind, and orient the flash on a stone with the results of a full gem "Schiller" flash. A "true gem" will show "Schiller" in many directions. These gems are increasing difficult to obtain. Regardless of what you read on other sites, the reds and purples will ALWAYS be the most valuable and rare, and thus, more costly.

Metaphysical properties: Spectrolite is said to provide quick relief from anxiety, hopelessness and depression, replacing them with enthusiasm, self-confidence and inspiration. It is said to dispell negativity and to bring clear understanding by enhancing clarity of thought and improving one's ability to cooperate with others in harmony. Spectrolite is also said to give perseverance, strength and enhanced intuition when one is experiencing times of conflict and change. Spectrolite is said to be helpfull in treating eye and brain disorders, and to help regulate metabolism and the digestive process.