Moonstone
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is a unique gemstone belonging to the feldspar family, known for its opalescent sheen that creates a phenomenon known as adularescence. This optical effect gives the stone its moon-like glow, which has captivated human imagination for centuries. Moonstone is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar. It has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for generations, and its name is derived from its resemblance to the moon, capturing the essence of lunar beauty and mystery.
Moonstone is an ethereal gem characterized by its opalescent sheen, which creates a moon-like glow. This captivating feature has made it a popular choice for jewelry and spiritual practices alike. Its unique appearance and metaphysical properties have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a gemstone that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.
| Chemical Classification | Inorganic - Feldspar |
| Color | Ranges from colorless to white, blue, peach, pink, and even gray or brown. |
| Streak | White |
| Luster | Adularescent. |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent. |
| Occurrence | India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. |
| Formation | Moonstone is formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma). |
| Diaphaneity | Translucent with adularescence |
| Cleavage | Perfect in two directions |
| Mohs Hardness | 6 to 6.5. |
| Specific Gravity | Approximately 2.56. |
| Diagnostic Properties | Adularescence (blue-white shimmer). |
| Chemical Composition | (Na,K)AlSi3O8 |
| Pleochroism | Not exhibited in moonstone. |
| Crystal System | Monoclinic (Orthoclase/Albite) |
| Optical Properties | Biaxial (+) |
| Refractive Index | 1.518 - 1.526 |
| Birefringence | 0.008 - 0.010 |
| 2V angle | Measured: 50° to 65° |
| Dispersion | Not typically relevant for moonstone. |