Labradorite
Classification:
Labradorite belongs to the plagioclas group and is related to albite.
Synonyms/Trade Names:
Feldspar.
Chemistry/Composition:
(Ca,Na)((Si,Al)4O8) .
Structure:
Identical to albite.
Crystallographic Constants:
8.17 12.88 7.10.
Crystal Group:
Triclinic.
Color:
Normally colorless.
Optical Properties:
nx=1.53-1.57 ny=1.53-1.58 nz=1.54-1.59.
Pleochroism:
In thin sections, colorless and without Pleochroism.
Powder Diagram:
3.20 3.18 4.04 3.23 (9-465).
Natural Sources:
World-wide.
Medical Importance:
Key Hazards:
Possibly fibrogenic, possibly mutagenic.
Involved Organs:
Possibly lung.
Exposure/Epidemiology:
It is used as an ornamental stone.
Thresholds:
In Germany, MAK 6 mg/m3.
Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Detailed data are not known.
Lung Diseases:
Associated specific diseases are not known; however, the mineral is listed by the ISO, i.e., possibly fibrogenic and mutagenic forms exist.
Clinical Presentation:
Associated specific symptoms are not known.
Radiology:
Associated specific findings are not known.
Lung Function:
Usually normal findings.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage:
Usually normal findings.
Pathology:
Gross:
The lungs are of normal color and consistency.
Histology:
The alveoli can contain an increased number of macrophages, and collections of brown dust particles may be seen in the lymphatic tissue.
Prognosis:
Usually good and without serious sequelae.
Additional Diseases:
None.
References:
search Pubmed for Labradorite