What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is a captivating gemstone known for its ethereal glow, often referred to as "adularescence." This optical phenomenon creates a shimmering effect that resembles moonlight, giving the stone its name. Moonstone belongs to the feldspar group of minerals and is composed of layers of orthoclase and albite. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstone is relatively soft, making it more suitable for jewelry that receives less wear, such as earrings and pendants.
Uses of Moonstone
Moonstone is a versatile gemstone that has been cherished for centuries. Its primary use is in jewelry, where it is fashioned into rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Its mystical appearance makes it a popular choice for bohemian and artistic designs. Beyond adornment, moonstone is also used in metaphysical practices. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional balance, and provide protection during travel. Additionally, moonstone is sometimes used in decorative items and carvings due to its unique beauty.
The Origin of Moonstone
Moonstone is found in various parts of the world, with significant deposits in Sri Lanka, which is renowned for producing high quality stones with a blue adularescence. Other notable sources include India, Madagascar, Myanmar, and the United States. In India, moonstone is often found in the states of Rajasthan and Orissa. The gemstone forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is often discovered in alluvial deposits where it has been eroded from its original location.
Different Types and Their Prices
Moonstone is renowned for its variety of types, each with unique characteristics and price points. The most valuable type is the blue moonstone, known for its strong adularescence and high clarity. Rainbow moonstone, which displays a spectrum of colors, is also highly prized. White and peach moonstones are more common and generally more affordable. Prices can vary significantly based on type, clarity, and overall quality.
Blue Moonstone: $50 to $300 per carat.
Rainbow Moonstone: $30 to $200 per carat.
White Moonstone: $10 to $100 per carat.
Peach Moonstone: $20 to $150 per carat.
Properties of Moonstone
Moonstone is not only beautiful but also possesses several intriguing properties. Its adularescence is caused by the diffraction of light through the layers of orthoclase and albite within the stone. Moonstone has a relatively low hardness, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to other gemstones. It is also known for its transparency and clarity, often being free of inclusions. Moonstone's ethereal glow and unique appearance make it a favorite among jewelers and gem enthusiasts alike.
Treatments of Moonstone
To enhance its appearance and durability, moonstone often undergoes various treatments. One common treatment is the application of a clear resin or oil to fill surface cracks and enhance the stone's clarity. Another method is heat treatment, used to improve the stone's color and adularescence. It's important for buyers to be aware of these treatments, as they can affect the gemstone's value. Always purchase moonstone from reputable dealers who disclose any treatments the stone has undergone.
