Anorthite

specimen number:
2072246

location:
Ampanihy, Atsimo-Andrefana, Madagascar

description:
A rich massive section of anorthite, this the colorful variety known as labradorite.

The labradorite deposits of Madagascar, particularly those located in the southern regions near Ampanihy and Itampolo, are world-famous for their high-quality anorthite-rich feldspar. Geologically, this variety of anorthite occurs within large masses of anorthosite rock, which formed through the slow cooling of magma deep within the Earth's crust during the Precambrian era. The characteristic "labradorescence" or play of colors is caused by sub-microscopic exsolution lamellae within the crystal structure that diffract light. Historically, commercial quarrying of Madagascar labradorite gained significant international momentum in the late 20th century, specifically during the 1990s and early 2000s, as the demand for decorative stone and lapidary material increased. Unlike traditional underground metal mines, these operations are primarily open-pit quarries where large blocks are extracted for architectural use or smaller nodules are harvested for the gemstone trade. Today, Madagascar remains a leading global producer of this material, with active quarrying continuing to supply the market with specimens ranging from pale silver-blue to intense multi-colored varieties.

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