Moonstone is distinguished from other stones by the presence of the optical phenomenon adularescence. Adularescent gemstones have a milky or bluish iridescent quality. This glowing blue iridescence or light becomes visible when the stone is rotated in front of a light source. The light moves across the stone like the glow of moonlight. This special quality is found in all stones in the feldspar group. Ancient cultures believed the stone was created from moonbeams.
Moonstones go up in value when they are more transparent. Being somewhat fragile with a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5, they are popular cut in the cabochon style but can also be faceted or carved, and the wearer must take care.
Loose Moonstone Gemstone
Wedding anniversary: 13th
Mohs hardness: 6 – 6.5 / 10
You will also like: white opal
Looks great in: rose gold / yellow gold / white gold / platinum / silver
