Choose a letter, pick a stone from the list, and read about it: what it is made of, how hard it is, what it looks like, what it has traditionally been said to do, and how to look after it.

450 minerals

Spectrolite

The Rainbow Guardian of Gifts

Also known as: Labradorite

About the stone

Spectrolite crystal — Photo: Mjeltsch, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A term used to describe Labradorite that has a rich display of colors, more than usual. The Spectrolite play of colors is the entire rainbow, where most labradorite displays blue/green colors only. Red is the rarest color for it to display, with yellow coming in second, then purple.

Mineral data

Chemical composition: Spectrolite is a richly colored form of labradorite, a plagioclase feldspar (a calcium-sodium aluminum silicate), with the approximate formula (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈.
Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
Color: Dark gray to black body with a flash of the entire rainbow; red is the rarest flash, then yellow, then purple.

Metaphysical data

Spectrolite, a labradorite that flashes the whole rainbow, has been utilized in metaphysical practices for protection, intuition and the discovery of one's unique gifts.

Protective Energy

Spectrolite is considered a highly protective stone, deflecting bad energy and preventing energy leakage away from the user, like a shimmering shield.
It is thought to dispel illusions and cut straight to the heart of the matter, helping a person see through confusion and pretense.

Emotional Healing

Spectrolite is said to bring out the best in people and to encourage full attention and courtesy to others, softening relationships.
It is believed to reduce impulsive, reckless or anti-social behavior in those who are easily led into trouble, encouraging steadier choices.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

Spectrolite is associated with the throat chakra, supporting honest expression of the unique gifts a person has found.
It is also linked with the third eye and crown chakras, thought to enhance intuitive vision and open the way to spiritual insight.

Zodiac Associations

Spectrolite is traditionally associated with Leo, Scorpio and Sagittarius, signs of confidence, depth and adventure, which find their inner light reflected here.
It vibrates to the number 7, associated with mysticism, inner wisdom and the search for hidden truths.

Spiritual Growth

Spectrolite is believed to enhance the mental and intuitive powers of clairvoyance, telepathy, prophecy, past-life recall and coincidence control.
It is said to help access the Akashic Records and to help one find their unique gifts, making it a favorite for intuitive readers and seekers.

Physical Healing

Crystals are a traditional wellness practice and not a substitute for professional medical advice, and nobody should rely on a stone to overcome addiction or illness.
In crystal tradition it is said to support the respiratory system, digestion, eyes, brain and metabolism, and to develop the sensitivity of healers' hands.

Care and handling

Spectrolite is a feldspar with a hardness of 6 to 6.5, but it has cleavage and can chip or split if struck, which can dull its flash. Clean it with a soft cloth and lukewarm water, and dry it well. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, acids, harsh cleaners and sudden temperature changes. Store it apart from harder stones, and protect the faces that show the color play, as scratches reduce the flash.

Individual experiences with Spectrolite vary, and its qualities are traditional beliefs rather than proven facts. Use it mindfully as a shimmering reminder of your own gifts, and seek proper support for health and recovery.