What are Labradorite Countertops Everything You Need to Know

Labradorite countertops, a type of granite, feature crystal infusions that create vibrant iridescent patches. They are often mistaken for quartzite due to their gemstone-like iridescence. Despite their increasing popularity, labradorite is more challenging to source compared to regular granite.

Labradorite is a stone that enhances the appeal of rustic-style kitchens when combined with warm wood cabinets. When combined with white or painted cabinets, it introduces a more contemporary touch.

If you plan on incorporating labradorite into your kitchen or bathroom, here’s what you should know.

What is Labradorite?

Labradorite is a feldspar mineral and semi-precious gemstone. It’s granite infused with crystals, giving it a unique iridescent look. Found in Labrador, Canada, it is also sourced from Norway, Finland, Australia, Ukraine, and some parts of the United States.

This stone is excellent for countertops due to its hardness and durability. The base color is dark gray or black, and labradorescence creates flashes of blue, red, gold, or green based on its origin and lighting. Labradorite, being a type of granite, is incredibly durable, ranking 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale.

Labradorite, like any other granite or stone counter, needs to be sealed to be stain-resistant. It is also resistant to scratches and can withstand cutting without being damaged. Additionally, it is heat resistant.

Compared to other popular granite countertops, Labradorite is less common and therefore more expensive, costing around $200 per square foot.

To take care of Labradorite countertops, seal them regularly and avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners.

Wondering if Labradorite countertops are easy to maintain? Yes, they are. Clean them daily with a gentle cleaner, reapply sealant as needed, and use a cutting board for protection.

Following these steps will keep your counters in excellent shape for decades.

Cleaning:

You can clean your Labradorite countertop with a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner. Good options include stone cleaners or a simple mix of dish soap and water. Clean your counters daily to remove crumbs and prevent micro scratches. Avoid using vinegar or lemon-based products, as they can damage the sealant and cause etching.

Also, do not use bleach or ammonia on Labradorite.

Maintenance/Sealing:

Regularly reapply sealant to your Labradorite countertop. This will help protect the surface and maintain its beauty.

Labradorite, a type of granite, requires regular sealing like any other stone counter. Reseal every six months to three years, depending on the sealer and wear. However, use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the counter and use pot holders under hot dishes to maintain longevity.

Explore ideas and examples of Labradorite countertops in homes, particularly on islands.

The designer used Labradorite on the main kitchen counter and island, pairing it with wood cabinets for a rustic feel. Against the white cabinets, it has a more modern look. A coordinating glass backsplash was chosen.

This photo shows the same kitchen as before. When zoomed in on the white cabinets, you can see the modern look of the Labradorite. Labradorite is versatile and can complement various decor styles depending on the other materials in the room.

The kitchen in the photo features rustic mountain style with Labradorite counters.

This mountain kitchen features a large Labradorite slab on the island and coordinating countertops. Warm wood tones and stone or brick accents can be used to achieve a similar look, as well as a tile backsplash. The kitchen also has a luxury wine cellar with Labradorite.

Labradorite is the crown jewel of this luxury wine cellar, cladding the countertops, backsplash, and ceiling. Despite its dark appearance, the lighting highlights flashes of blue. The countertops and backsplash feature blue labradorite.

There are many backsplash options to match Labradorite counters, but using Labradorite as both the counter and backsplash is an attractive choice. Some designers even use Labradorite for sinks. The blue Labradorite in this kitchen reflects light, flashing gold and blue.

By using a counter like this, you can keep everything else simple and let the counter shine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where can you buy Labradorite counters?

Labradorite is harder to find compared to other types of granite. Big box home improvement stores usually don’t carry it, so it’s best to look for local stone countertop shops to find what you need.

How long do Labradorite counters last?

A well-maintained Labradorite countertop can last up to 100 years. Labradorite is a durable stone that resists scratches and chips. When sealed, it is also resistant to water and stains.

What are the best backsplash ideas for Labradorite counters?

There are many backsplash options that complement labradorite, depending on your preferred style. One easy option is to use Labradorite as the backsplash itself. Another idea is to choose a glass backsplash that incorporates the same color as the stone (such as blue flashes if your counter has them).

You can also consider using a stone backsplash for a rustic look or a subway tile to match the other elements in your kitchen.

In conclusion, Labradorite is a versatile and long-lasting material for countertops, and there are several backsplash options to enhance its beauty.

Labradorite countertops are granite infused with crystals that create iridescent patches. They have a black or dark gray base color with flashes of blue, gold, yellow, or red. These counters are rarer and pricier than other types of granite.

Labradorite is perfect for rustic kitchen countertops when combined with warm wood cabinets. When paired with white or painted cabinets, it takes on a more modern appearance, making it a versatile stone counter option.