Moonstone
Majestic. Illuminated. Tranquil. The subtle interplay of light with layers of albite crystals in this pale and delicate stone is called adularescence, named after Mount Adular in Switzerland, where it was once mined. The overall effects resemble the moonlight, and these refractions were once believed to be benevolent spirits.
Care
Moonstone is rated “good” for everyday wear. Avoid exposure to heat, contact with chemicals, and protect from scratches and harsh blows. To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.
Major Sources
Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Brazil, Myanmar, Australia
Lore
Sensuous and intriguing, Moonstone seems to glow with the light of the moon itself. Its milky translucence changes with every movement, offering an ever-shifting play of light and shadow within its mysterious depths.
With its rich luster and subdued color, the gem was held by the ancients to have been formed by moonlight. Another legend promised a vision of the future to one who held a Moonstone in his mouth during the full moon. Today this shimmering gem, sacred to the Indian culture, is believed to arouse tender passion, making it an ideal gift for lovers.
Moonstone has many varieties and within the Notable Collection™ we offer several. Burmese with a translucent body and white sheen, Sri Lankan with a translucent body and blue sheen, African with a transparent body and bright blue or teal sheen and African Rainbow with a translucent to transparent body and multi-colored sheen (Rainbow Moonstone is actually a form of Labradorite).
In fashion, the misty hue of Moonstone is the perfect accent to Victorian styles. Its translucent color makes an interesting combination with pearls, and other translucent gems like Rose Quartz and milky Aquamarine.
Quality Information
Standard: Translucent to Semi-Translucent, good cut and polish with a colorless, white or light grey body exhibiting faint to strong blue adularescence
Enhancement
AGTA Code: N
Working with this gemstone
Ultrasonic: Never use
Steamer: Never use
Heat: Poor - may crack or cleave
Harmful Chemicals: Hydrofluoric acid
Gemstone Properties
Species: Orthoclase Feldspar
Color: Colorless
Hardness: 6-6.5
RI: 1.518-1.526
Specific Gravity: 2.58
Optic Character: DR
Phenomena: Adularescence, Asterism, Chatoyancy
