Moonstone

Moonstone

Moonstone is a captivating gemstone renowned for its ethereal glow, known as adularescence—a soft, billowy light that appears to move across the stone’s surface. This phenomenon results from light diffraction within the microstructure of the mineral, specifically the intergrowth of two feldspar species: orthoclase and albite.

Variety and Category

• Mineral Family: Feldspar (Orthoclase and Albite)
• Chemical Formula: (Na,K)AlSi₃O₈
• Crystal System: Monoclinic
• Mohs Hardness: 6.0–6.5

Moonstone belongs to the feldspar group of minerals, which constitutes a significant portion of the Earth’s crust. Its unique optical properties and delicate structure make it a favorite among gem enthusiasts.

Color and Value

Moonstones exhibit a range of body colors, including colorless, white, gray, green, peach, and brown. The most prized specimens are those with a colorless, transparent body and a strong blue adularescence. The value of moonstone gems depends on several factors:

• Adularescence: The quality and color of the sheen; blue is the most valuable.
• Clarity: Stones with fewer inclusions are more desirable.
• Cut: Cabochon cuts are common to enhance the adularescent effect.
• Size: Larger stones with strong adularescence command higher prices.

Sri Lankan National Gem & Jewelry Authority categorizes moonstones based on their quality and color:

• Blue Moonstones: Including crystal blue, blue, and muddy blue variants.
• Semi-Blue Moonstones: Top semi-blue, normal semi-blue, and muddy semi-blue.
• White Moonstones: Crystal white, silvery-white, pearly white, normal white, and muddy white.

Common Cuts and Applications of Moonstone Gems

Due to its perfect cleavage and relatively low hardness, moonstone is typically cut en cabochon to best display its adularescence and minimize the risk of chipping. Jewelers commonly use these in various types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. However, to protect moonstone jewelry from hard knocks and scratches, users should take care of it.

Sri Lankan Uniqueness

Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest moonstones. The country’s gem-rich regions, particularly around Meetiyagoda, yield moonstones celebrated for their exceptional clarity and vibrant blue sheen. Sri Lankan moonstones are esteemed in the global gemstone market for their superior quality and natural beauty.

At Luxiris Gems (PVT) Ltd., we take immense pride in offering authentic Sri Lankan moonstones, each meticulously selected for its exceptional beauty and quality. Our commitment to ethical sourcing and excellence ensures that our clients receive gemstones that are not only stunning but also steeped in the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s gemological legacy. Your favorite stone is one inquiry away. Contact us now for details.