All you want to know about the stone that holds the energy of the moon.
At first glance, not the most spectacular of gemstones but in the presence of light and movement Moonstone reveals all its beauty and lure of the blue and purple sheen. Take a closer look at this spiritual and intriguing stone, its meaning, different types, and origin.
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is a mineral of the so-called orthoclase feldspar group like paradoxite and adular, amongst others. The term feldspar was given to this group because early specimen were found in the field - which “Feld” translates into. “Spar” is a generic term used in geology to refer to non-metallic minerals with a luster that breaks on certain layers. Moonstone is composed of potassium, silicate, and aluminum and stands out through its schiller effect, also known as adularescence.
The name Moonstone goes back to the optical phenomenon of adularescence. When the light moves across the stone, the exceptional glow on its surface looks similar to moonlight gliding across a calm ocean or lake.
Different types of Moonstone
Moonstone comes in a variety of colors. The most common is the Blue Moonstone with a floating blue sheen on the surface. The base color of the stone is transparent to opaque white. And the magic only shows itself with light and movement.
Another popular type is Rainbow Moonstone. It has a very milky white to pale gray appearance and is classified as labradorite, actually. Like the blue version, Rainbow Moonstones have a blue sheen that may sometimes show other colors of the rainbow, too.
Then there are also green and pink variations. Both of them are much rarer than the other two. As the names suggest, the base color of Green Moonstone is a whitish-green to medium green. You can see a soft glow when looking at it from certain angles. Pink Moonstone varies from pale honey and beige colors to pale rose and pink. Like the blue version, it has a blue schiller when moved around under a light source.
Moonstone Meaning
Moonstone in history
In ancient Greece and Rome, Moonstone was a symbol of the power of the moon. Due to its unique glow, people believed it was formed by moonlight. Romans even believed its appearance would change with the different phases of the moon. And that it depicted the image of Diana, the Roman Goddess of the Moon. In India, Moonstone has the nickname “Chandrakant” which means “loved by the moon” and refers to the apparently mystical origin.
It was seen as a source of energy and well-being, especially for women. And believed to support fertility and help with an easier birth.
Moonstone meaning today and healing properties
In modern science, we know that the moon has a big impact on us and our environment. Physical as well as emotional, and the same is valid for Moonstone. As a stone of new beginnings, spiritual strength, and inner growth, it soothes emotional instability and reduces stress. It can help you put your emotions into perspective and understanding their purpose and meaning. It also enhances patience and empathy. The gemstone is filled with passive feminine energy and provides support in balancing out strong male-female energies. If you have to deal with aggressive females or struggle with aggressive overreactions yourself, Moonstone is the perfect antidote.
Physical healing properties attributed to Moonstone are relief from PMS, support during pregnancy, and childbirth. It is also suggested that the stone can help with digestive problems. It can eliminate toxins from your body and improve the state of skin, hair, eyes, and organs. However, never put the healing properties of crystals over the medical advice of a doctor. Use it as an addition and not as a substitute for medical cures.
Moonstone in astrology
Moonstone is the birthstone of June. Furthermore, it is associated with the zodiac signs of Gemini and Cancer. If you were born in one of these periods, it is your lucky stone. Wearing it will boost your happiness and positive thinking.
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Moonstone Jewelry
Moonstone, to this day, is still an underdog on the Jewelry market. But due to the mystic sheen and the many spiritual and physical benefits attributed to it, Moonstone Jewelry is recently becoming very popular and fashionable. However, it is not the easiest stone to work with. On the MOHS scale, it is classified as a 6.5 and one of the softer semi-precious gemstones. Therefore Moonstone rings need special care and attention, as they could scratch more easily. Necklaces and earrings are less likely to scratch because they are less exposed to contact with sharp objects.
Nonetheless, it is a beautiful stone. And when stored correctly and worn with care, Moonstone Jewelry will last a lifetime. And it is also a quite popular choice for Engagement rings. -Given to your sweetheart on a day when the moon is full, it is said you will always be passionate about each other.
It is possible to facet Moonstone, though you will see cabochons more often. Due to the different layers, it can show lines and inclusions when faceted. At Goldmariie we love both: the smooth and glowing surface of cabochons and the unique look of faceted Moonstones. That is why we offer options in both variants.
Where Moonstone can be found
Commercially mined Moonstone is sourced in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. There are also large occurrences in Madagascar, Austria, Norway, India, as well as in the US. Sri Lanka is the primary source, however.
Generally, genuine highest-quality Blue Moonstone is rare and therefore expensive. Moonstone that is a little more opaque is much more affordable while still maintaining the wonderful adularescence. Fully opaque stones can be found in large amounts. They often have a decent schiller, but it might be visibly less than for higher quality ones.
Fun fact
In the year 2000, Moonstone was officially declared "Gemstone of the State of Florida" to commemorate and honor the memory of the 1969 moon landing.