How Much Does Labradorite Countertop Cost?

Are you looking for a countertop material that will make your kitchen truly stand out?

Look no further than labradorite! This semi-precious gemstone is gaining popularity as a stunning and unique alternative to traditional countertop options like granite.

First discovered in Labrador, Canada (hence the name), labradorite has an exotic, eye-catching appearance thanks to its crystal infusions.

It’s not just beautiful – it’s also very durable and can be used for countertops, sinks, backsplashes, and even tiles.

How Much Does Labradorite Countertop Cost?

By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to decide if gorgeous labradorite counters are the right choice for your dream kitchen. Let’s get started!

What is Labradorite?

Labradorite is a stunning and unique natural stone that is gaining popularity as a high-end countertop material.

It is a type of feldspar mineral known for its distinctive “labradorescence” effect, where the stone displays mesmerizing flashes of iridescent blue, green, gold, and other colors when viewed from different angles.

Labradorite is named after the place where it was first discovered – Labrador, Canada. It is formed from the slow cooling of magma, which allows the mineral crystals to grow and align in a way that creates the stone’s signature colorful sheen.

As a countertop material, labradorite offers several advantages:

1. Durability: Labradorite is a hard, dense stone that is resistant to scratches, chips, and heat. It is rated a 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for heavy-duty use in the kitchen.
2. Stain-resistance: When properly sealed, labradorite countertops are resistant to stains from food, drinks, and other common household substances.
3. Unique appearance: No two labradorite slabs are exactly alike, which means your countertop will be a truly one-of-a-kind statement piece.
4. Versatility: Labradorite can be used not only for countertops but also for sinks, backsplashes, and even floor tiles, allowing you to create a cohesive look throughout your space.

However, labradorite is also one of the most expensive countertop materials on the market, with prices ranging from $60 to over $100 per square foot.

It also requires professional installation and regular sealing to maintain its beauty and performance.

Despite the higher cost, many homeowners are drawn to labradorite for its luxurious appearance and enduring strength.

If you’re looking for a countertop that is both beautiful and functional, labradorite is worth considering.

How Much Do Labradorite Countertops Cost Per Square Foot?

One of the first questions on most people’s minds when considering any countertop material is “How much will it cost me?” With labradorite still being relatively new to the countertop scene, it can be tricky to nail down exact pricing.

Based on our research calling various manufacturers, here’s what we found:

• Labradorite is one of the most expensive countertop materials currently available
• Material alone can cost anywhere from $60 to over $170 per square foot
• Cost varies significantly based on color, slab size, and where you purchase from
• Large price disparities between different wholesalers and manufacturers

Some real-world pricing examples:

Keep in mind these prices are for the material only.

Installation is an additional cost that can vary widely based on factors like:

• Your home’s layout and size of countertops needed
• The complexity of the installation (angles, seams, etc.)
• Labor costs in your specific area

For the most accurate pricing, we recommend contacting local contractors who can assess your project and provide a customized quote. Most offer free, no-obligation estimates.

So while labradorite is a high-end material, the stunning results may be well worth the investment for many homeowners. Now let’s look at the fun part – all the color and style options!

Choosing Your Labradorite Countertop Color and Finish

One of the coolest things about labradorite is the incredible array of colors it comes in. The most popular hues include:

• Beige
• Black
• Blue
• Brown
• Cream
• Gray
• Green
• Pink
• Purple
• Red
• White
• Yellow

You’re sure to find a shade that perfectly complements your kitchen’s color palette. But the customization doesn’t stop there! Labradorite can also be finished in a variety of ways:

• Polished
• Honed
• Toppled
• Sawn
• Sandblasted
• Pineapple
• Pickling
• Natural Split
• Mushroom
• Grooved
• Flamed
• Chiseled
• Bush Hammered
• Brushed
• Antique

Each finish creates a distinct look, from sleek and modern to rustic and natural. You can also choose your desired thickness, with slabs commonly available in:

• 10mm
• 12mm
• 16mm
• 20mm
• 23mm
• 25mm
• 30mm

Many manufacturers will even create custom thicknesses for your project if needed. With so many possibilities to choose from, you can let your creativity shine.

Labradorite Durability and Maintenance

Looks are important, but you also need a countertop that can handle the rigors of daily kitchen use. How does the labradorite measure up? Let’s take a look.

As a type of granite, labradorite is:

• Very hard and durable
• Resistant to scratches (even when cutting directly on the surface, though using a cutting board is still recommended)
• Heat-resistant
• Considered a high-end, luxury material

It falls at a 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, which grades mineral hardness from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). This means it’s plenty tough for countertop use.

Labradorite does need to be sealed, just like other natural stone countertop materials.

Once sealed, it is:

• Stain-resistant
• Protected against etching from acidic foods and drinks
• Easy to clean with mild soap and water or a granite-safe cleaner

One thing to note is that labradorite may be slightly more prone to chipping compared to other granite varieties. However, professionally installed labradorite countertops are still very durable and long-lasting.

Tips for Choosing and Installing Labradorite Countertops

If you’ve decided labradorite is the perfect fit for your kitchen, keep these tips in mind as you move forward with your project:

1. Thoroughly research potential manufacturers. Since labradorite is a high-end material, quality matters. Less expensive options may not give you the stunning results you’re looking for.
2. Work with an experienced, professional installer. Proper installation is key to your countertops looking great and performing well for years to come.
3. Consider your kitchen’s layout and how much material you’ll need. Labradorite slabs come in various sizes, so you’ll want to choose the most efficient options for your space.
4. Don’t forget about complementary elements like sinks, backsplashes, and cabinets. Labradorite can work beautifully with a range of styles and materials.
5. Budget accordingly. Labradorite is a true luxury product and an investment in your home. Make sure you have room in your budget for both the material and installation costs.

With the right planning and preparation, you’ll be enjoying your breathtaking new labradorite countertops before you know it!

Conclusion

Labradorite countertops are a stunning and unique way to elevate your kitchen to showstopper status. While they come with a luxury price tag, many homeowners find the one-of-a-kind beauty and lasting durability well worth the cost.

This distinctive natural stone offers:

• Eye-catching colors and crystal patterns.
• Exceptional strength and scratch resistance.
• Heat-resistance.
• Stain resistance when properly sealed.
• A wide range of color and finish options.
• Versatility for countertops, sinks, backsplashes, and more.

Of course, labradorite isn’t the right fit for every home or budget. It’s one of the most expensive countertop materials on the market, and expert installation is a must.

You’ll need to do your research to find a quality manufacturer and factor in both material and labor costs.

However, if you’re looking for a high-end countertop that makes an unforgettable impression, it’s hard to beat showstopping labradorite.

With its unique beauty and superior performance, labradorite is a surface you’ll love for years to come.