Warm golden, peach, or coppery-red body color sparkling with metallic schiller (aventurescence) from aligned specular hematite or copper...
Chemical formula
(Na,Ca)(Al,Si)₄O₈ with Hematite or Native Copper platelets
Feldspar • Orthoclase / Albite Intergrowth (Alkali Feldspar)
Moonstone
Colorless, milky white, peach, or gray body color showing a floating blue or silvery billowy light sheen (adularescence) caused by light diffraction across microscopic alternating orthoclase and albite layers.
(K,Na)AlSi₃O₈ (Potassium-Sodium Aluminum Silicate lamellar intergrowth)Mohs 6.0 – 6.5 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Feldspar |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Orthoclase / Albite Intergrowth (Alkali Feldspar) |
| Gemological Variety | Moonstone |
| Chemical Composition | (K,Na)AlSi₃O₈ (Potassium-Sodium Aluminum Silicate lamellar intergrowth) |
| Crystal System | Monoclinic / Triclinic |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.0 – 6.5 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 2.56 – 2.59 |
| Refractive Index | 1.518 – 1.526 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Colorless, milky white, peach, or gray body color showing a floating blue or silvery billowy light sheen (adularescence) caused by light diffraction across microscopic alternating orthoclase and albite layers.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Forms in pegmatites and high-grade metamorphic rocks in Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, and alpine clefts.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Transparent colorless cabochons exhibiting a centered, three-dimensional royal-blue adularescence are the pinnacle of collector moonstones.
Fine Jewelry Applications
High-domed cabochon pendants, earrings, and protective bezel-set rings.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Natural moonstone is untreated; beware of coated glass or opalite imitations.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Has two directions of cleavage and 6.0–6.5 Mohs hardness; protect from knocks and never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Revered in Roman and Indian traditions as solidified moonlight, symbolizing intuition, safe travel, and calm. Traditional June birthstone.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Feldspar
Related Entries
Smoky dark gray body color flashing electric iridescent peacock blue, gold, green, and violet (labradorescence) via lamellar interference.
Chemical formula
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈ (50–70% Anorthite, 30–50% Albite)