Larvikite

Rock

By Tim Matthews, JD, FGA, GG, DGA,
CEO and President of JTV (retired)
Published: June 2014
Modified: September 2023
Larvikite Polished Larvikite Rough Larvikite Jewelry

Larvikite is a feldspar-rich igneous rock, called a monzonite and is named for the town in Norway where it was found. One characteristic of this stone is its blue sheen or labradorescence, caused by the presence of interlocking feldspar crystals within the structure of the stone. Through the wonders of nature, each polished gem has a sheen that sparkles with deep silver tones. Usually, this stone is used in ornamental and decorative purposes.

General Information

Common Name
Larvikite
Species
Rock
Transparency
Opaque-Translucent
Pleochroism
None
Hardness
6-7
Streak
White
Inclusions
Larvikite displays the blue sheen or shiller effect which is caused by alternating alkali feldspar and plagioclase layers.
Luster
Pearly, Dull, Subvitreous
Crystal System
NA
Chemistry Classification
Rock

Larvikite Colors

  • Black Larvikite
    Black
  • Blue Larvikite
    Blue
  • Brown Larvikite
    Brown
  • Gray Larvikite
    Gray
  • White Larvikite
    White

Alternate Names

Norwegian Pearl Granite And Royal Blue Pearl Granite

Countries of Origin

Colombia; Ecuador; Argentina; Romania; Madagascar; United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Switzerland; Bolivia (Plurinational State of); New Zealand; Canada; Unknown; Norway; China; Brazil; Australia; Bulgaria; Chile; Peru; Germany

Care

Normal care.