Moonstone: Properties, Uses and Virtues

Moonstone, an ethereal gem with mystical reflections, fascinates gem lovers and arouses the curiosity of spiritual seekers.

In this captivating exploration of moonstone, we delve into its geological origins, discover the striking beauty of rough crystals and explore its widespread brilliance around the world, all the while revealing the threads of its enigmatic history.

de Lune : Table of contents

• Moonstone geological formation
• de Lune Brut – Natural Radiance Revealed
• Sources – The Worldwide Presence of Moonstone
• Historical Significance of Moonstone – A Mystical Heritage
• Metaphysical properties of Moonstone – Soothing Lunar Energy
• Moonstone varieties
• Moonstone colors
• Durability and Portability of Moonstone
• Moonstone Enhancements – Preserving its natural splendor
• Synthetic Moonstone – La Nature en Laboratoire
• Imitations of Moonstone – Distinguishing the Authentic
• Moonstone care – Preserving your Lunar Light

Moonstone geological formation

Moonstone, a member of the feldspar family, emerges from magmatic rocks such as syenite and orthoclase. Its unique luster, called adularescence, results from the scattering of light through the mineral’s thin inner layers. These geological features create the iridescent magic that makes moonstone such an exceptional gem.

de Lune Brut – Natural Radiance Revealed

Raw moonstone crystals come from the orthoclase and feldspar families. It is generally composed of alternating layers of albite and othose or orthoclase, which are mixed together during the mineral’s creation. Their raw appearance can highlight subtle shades of milky white, accentuating the natural beauty reminiscent of the lunar surface. These crystals, often cut into cabochons, capture the very essence of moonstone.

Sources – The Worldwide Presence of Moonstone

Moonstone is mined in various parts of the world, including Myanmar, which produces a superior quality but has been over-mined, depleting all its reserves. These gems are increasingly rare and expensive because they are non-renewable.

Also in the ranking are India, Sri Lanka, Australia, the United States and Tanzania. Each region contributes to the color palette and unique quality of the moonstone extracted from its bowels. Its soft, celestial radiance has captured the hearts of gem lovers across the continents.

Historical Significance of Moonstone – A Mystical Heritage

The history of moonstone dates back to ancient times, when it was revered as a sacred stone with mystical powers.

Ancient Rome and Greece: Ancient Romans and Greeks believed that moonstone was formed from the rays of the moon. It was commonly believed that its glow changed according to its cycle.

Throughout history: It has been associated with various lunar goddesses, giving this gem an aura of mysticism and spiritual power.

Florida: following the Apollo 11 moon landing, the state of Florida declared moonstone its official gemstone. It still is today.

Today: It remains the symbol of the moon and the birthstone of June.

Metaphysical properties of Moonstone – Soothing Lunar Energy

Moonstone is renowned for its metaphysical properties that promote inner peace, intuition and femininity. Associated with the moon, it is considered a stone that balances emotions and stimulates intuition. Some see it as a stone of protection, bringing calm and serenity to its wearer.

Moonstone varieties

Moonstone comes in many varieties, each with its own specific nuances.

• Blue Moonstone: The emblematic moonstone displays strong transparency and a soft to intense blue glow.
• Rainbow Moonstone: Similar to blue moonstone, rainbow moonstone is highly transparent. Its blue glow will be accompanied by green and orange ones. This stone is actually a type of labradorite, not moonstone, but the term is accepted.
• Orthoclase moonstone: This variety has warm colors and variable transparency.
• Cat’s-eye moonstone: Many moonstones show a cat’s-eye or asterism when cabochon-cut. Star moonstones are quite rare, and rise sharply in price when they are transparent with a distinct blue glow.

Moonstone colors

Moonstone’s signature color is milky white, but it can also come in shades of blue, green, peach, pink, brown and gray. The diversity of its colors adds to its appeal, allowing each stone to be a unique work of art of nature.

Durability and Portability of Moonstone

With a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstone is relatively soft. This means it requires a certain amount of care when handling and wearing. However, by taking good care of the stone and avoiding violent shocks, it can shine with its delicate glow for many years.

Fun fact: Orthose Moonstone is used as a calibrator on the Mohs scale.

Moonstone Enhancements – Preserving its natural splendor

Moonstone is not often treated. It can be heated or irradiated to improve its clarity and color, but this is rare.

Synthetic Moonstone – La Nature en Laboratoire

Creating synthetic moonstones remains a technical and costly challenge. Although a few attempts have been made to reproduce this gem in the laboratory, the complexity of its lustre and iridescent reflections make synthetic versions relatively rare. They are not present on the market.

Synthetic moonstone is often made from materials such as glass or laboratory-produced feldspar crystals. However, the majority of so-called “synthetic moonstones” are in fact imitations made from materials such as glass or laboratory-produced feldspar crystals.

Imitations of Moonstone – Distinguishing the Authentic

The popularity of moonstone has given rise to imitations on the market, often made with glass or other synthetic materials. Discerning buyers need to be vigilant and seek out reliable sources to guarantee the authenticity of their moonstone.

Moonstone care – Preserving your Lunar Light

Preserving the beauty of Moonstone requires attentive care. Clean this delicate gem with a soft brush and mild soapy water, avoiding the use of abrasive materials.

Protect it from extreme temperature variations and shocks, and avoid exposure to aggressive chemicals. Regular inspections and professional cleaning will help ensure the longevity of its enchanting shine.

To preserve its timeless elegance, store it separately to avoid any risk of scratches. By following these tips, you can maintain the splendor of your Moonstone over time.