When clients ask for something truly unique in their hardscape, most contractors reach for the same handful of options: bluestone, travertine, or standard gray granite. But there is a natural stone that stops people in their tracks. Labradorite pavers deliver a striking black surface with an iridescent shimmer that no manufactured product can replicate. For contractors who build premium outdoor spaces, this is a material worth knowing inside and out.
What Is Labradorite?
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral found in igneous rock formations, most notably in Ukraine, Finland, Madagascar, and Canada. Named after Labrador, Canada, where it was first formally described in 1770, this mineral is prized for its labradorescence: a play of color across the surface that shifts between blue, green, gold, and violet depending on the angle of light.
In the natural stone industry, "labradorite granite" refers to a group of anorthosite or gabbro rocks rich in labradorite feldspar. While not technically a true granite in the geological sense, the trade classification groups it with granite due to its similar hardness, density, and performance characteristics. For contractors and specifiers, it behaves like a premium granite in every practical way.
The most sought after labradorite deposits for paving stone come from the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine, where deep quarries produce material with exceptional density and uniformly dark coloring. These quarries have supplied European construction projects for decades, and the stone is now making its way into the American market.
Why Labradorite Matters for Contractors
Every contractor knows the challenge: clients want something special, but the project still needs to perform. Labradorite solves both problems at once. Here is what sets it apart.
Visual Impact That Sells Projects
A labradorite paver installation creates an immediate "wow" factor. The deep black base with its signature shimmer gives driveways, walkways, and patios a look that photographs beautifully and impresses in person. For contractors who rely on portfolio work to win new clients, labradorite projects become signature pieces.
Exceptional Durability
Labradorite granite is one of the hardest and densest natural stones available for paving. With compressive strength values reaching 24,000 to 31,000+ PSI, it outperforms most granite varieties used in residential and commercial hardscaping. For comparison, typical concrete pavers rate between 8,000 and 12,000 PSI. This means labradorite can handle heavy vehicle traffic, salt exposure, and decades of freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or spalling.
Near Zero Water Absorption
Water absorption is one of the most critical specs for any outdoor paving material. Stone that absorbs water is vulnerable to freeze-thaw damage, staining, and biological growth. Labradorite granite typically tests between 0.06% and 0.26% water absorption, which is remarkably low even by granite standards. To learn more about why this number matters, read our guide on water absorption in natural stone.
Low Maintenance
Unlike porous stones that need regular sealing, labradorite's density means it resists staining naturally. A periodic rinse with water and mild detergent is all it takes. No annual sealing contracts, no efflorescence problems, no color fading from UV exposure.
Technical Specifications
When specifying labradorite pavers for a project, these are the numbers that matter. The following data is based on Black Ice L7, a splitface labradorite paver sourced from the Neverovka Quarry in Zhytomyr, Ukraine.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Stone Type | Labradorite Granite (Gabbro-Anorthosite) |
| Finish | Splitface (natural cleft) |
| Nominal Size | 7.87″ x 3.94″ x 1″ (200 x 100 x 25 mm) |
| Density | 2,780 to 2,830 kg/m³ |
| Compressive Strength | 24,200 to 31,300 PSI (167 to 216 MPa) |
| Water Absorption | 0.06% to 0.26% |
| Mohs Hardness | 6 to 6.5 |
| Coverage | 4.65 pieces per sqft |
| Radiation Class | Class 1 (safe for all applications) |
Contractor tip: The splitface finish provides natural slip resistance, making labradorite pavers suitable for pool decks, sloped walkways, and other areas where traction matters. For a deeper comparison of finish types, see our article on splitface vs. tumbled granite pavers.
Best Applications for Labradorite Pavers
Labradorite pavers perform well in virtually any exterior hardscape application. Here are the projects where they deliver the greatest value.
Residential Driveways
With compressive strength exceeding 24,000 PSI, labradorite handles passenger vehicles, delivery trucks, and snow plows without concern. The dark surface also hides tire marks and oil drips better than lighter stones, keeping the driveway looking clean between maintenance visits.
Walkways and Entryways
First impressions matter. A labradorite walkway leading to a front door creates an immediate sense of quality and permanence. The iridescent shimmer is especially visible under landscape lighting, making evening curb appeal a genuine selling point for your clients.
Patios and Outdoor Living Spaces
Labradorite pairs exceptionally well with modern outdoor kitchens, fire features, and contemporary landscaping. Its dark tone provides a striking contrast against green lawns and lighter building materials. The near zero water absorption means no staining from spilled food or beverages.
Commercial and Municipal Projects
Plazas, memorial spaces, church courtyards, and retail storefronts benefit from labradorite's combination of durability and visual distinction. The stone's longevity makes it a sound choice for projects where replacement or major maintenance would be disruptive and expensive.
Pool Surrounds
The splitface texture provides natural grip when wet, and the low water absorption means the stone will not deteriorate from constant moisture and chemical exposure. For more on why absorption rates matter for pool applications, check out our guide on freeze-thaw resistant pavers.
Why Black Ice L7
Not all labradorite pavers are created equal. The quarry source, cutting method, and quality control all affect the final product. Black Ice L7, sourced exclusively from the Neverovka Quarry in Ukraine, stands out for several reasons.
Consistent color and quality. Every pallet comes from the same quarry block, ensuring uniform coloring across your entire project. No mismatched batches. No color surprises on the job site.
Tested and certified. Full laboratory testing confirms the numbers listed above. This is not marketing copy. These are verified material properties you can include in project specifications with confidence.
Direct import pricing. Because OD Granite Group imports directly from the quarry, contractors get access to this premium stone at pricing that makes it competitive with mid-range domestic granite. No middlemen, no unnecessary markups.
In stock in Cleveland, OH. Material ships from our warehouse in the Cleveland metro area. No waiting months for overseas orders. No customs delays on your timeline.
Looking for wholesale pricing? We offer tiered pricing for contractors and stone yards. Learn more about our wholesale program for black granite pavers.
Getting Started
Whether you are specifying labradorite for the first time or looking for a reliable domestic source, the best next step is to get the stone in your hands. We offer free samples so you can evaluate the color, texture, and quality before committing to a project order. Your clients will want to see and touch this material before they say yes, and so should you.
Labradorite pavers represent a genuine opportunity for contractors who want to differentiate their work. The combination of unmatched aesthetics, verified durability, and direct import pricing makes Black Ice L7 a material worth adding to your portfolio.