Gemstones Beginning with "L"

Labradorite is a feldspar named after the peninsula of Labrador in Canada where it was discovered. It appears as a dull, dark gray, but when turned to the light picks up a sheen of colors ranging from blue and violet to green and orange. A deep blue sheen is the most common. Deposits can be found in Canada, Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Russia and the United States. Labradorite is said to increase extrasensory perception; activate a sense of multiple levels of consciousness; and to protect from any negative influences. Mohs' hardness: 6 to 6-1/2.

Lapis Lazuli is considered a rock instead of a mineral because it is composed of several different minerals, including 25 to 40 percent lazurite, as well as pyrite, calcite, mica, sodalite, hornblende and others. Derived from Latin and Arabic words meaning blue stone, lapis can range from an opaque, evenly distributed deep sapphire blue with fine specks of pyrite that look like gold (the best quality), to a gray or white with blue interlaced (lower quality). Deposits can be found in Afghanistan, Russia, Chile, Angola, Burma, Canada, Pakistan, California and Colorado. Lapis lazuli is said to bring awareness of soul and spiritual purpose in life; to promote courage; and to soothe migraines and headaches. Mohs' hardness: 5 to 6.

Leopardskin Jasper is mottled with red, yellow, brown and pinkish spots like the fur of a leopard. Leopardskin jasper is said to help bring wanted things into your life. See Jasper for more information.

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