10 Fascinating Facts About Moonstone
Moonstone is one of the most enchanting gemstones, famous for its glowing adularescence that seems to capture the light of the Moon itself. But beyond its shimmering beauty, moonstone has a rich history, surprising scientific properties, and some truly unusual traits. Here are ten fascinating facts about this mesmerising gem.
Moonstone’s Glow Comes From a Special Internal Structure
Moonstone is a mix of two feldspar minerals, orthoclase and albite, stacked in incredibly thin layers. As light enters the stone, it scatters between these layers, producing the soft, floating glow known as adularescence. The thickness of the layers determines the colour of the glow, with thinner layers creating a blue sheen and thicker layers producing a white shimmer.
Green Moonstones Exist But They’re Extremely Rare
Most people associate moonstone with white, peach, or blue hues, but a rare green variety also exists. This colouration is caused by unique mineral compositions within the stone. While not commonly found on the market, these green moonstones offer an unusual alternative for collectors and gem enthusiasts.
Moonstone Exhibits Weak Piezoelectric Properties
Like other feldspar minerals, moonstone exhibits weak piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate a small electrical charge when subjected to mechanical stress. While this effect is not as strong as in quartz, it is still an interesting scientific property of the gemstone.
Feldspar Minerals Have Been Found in Meteorites
Feldspar minerals, the same mineral group that forms moonstone, have been discovered in meteorites. These extraterrestrial samples lack the signature glow of moonstone but show that feldspar crystallisation occurs beyond our planet.
People Once Believed Moonstone Waxed and Waned With the Lunar Cycle
In medieval Europe, many believed that moonstone’s glow was tied to the phases of the Moon, making it appear brighter during a full moon. While we now know this isn’t true, the connection between moonstone and lunar energy still influences its use in modern spiritual practices.
Moonstone Was a Favourite of Art Nouveau Jewellers
During the Art Nouveau period (1890–1910), moonstone became a signature gemstone in jewellery. Designers like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany adored its mystical glow, often pairing it with delicate goldwork and nature-inspired motifs.
A Rare Surface Texture in Some Moonstones Resembles Scales
Some rare moonstone specimens exhibit an unusual surface pattern that reflects light in a way that resembles scales. This effect is due to subtle variations in the feldspar's internal layering. Though not widely known about, these specimens have intrigued collectors seeking distinctive variations of this gem.
Not All Moonstone Is Moonstone
“Rainbow moonstone” is one of the most popular varieties on the market, but it’s not actually moonstone. Instead, it’s a type of labradorite feldspar that exhibits a similar shimmering effect. While still a beautiful and natural gem, it differs in structure and composition from genuine orthoclase-based moonstone.
Some of the Largest Moonstones Weigh Hundreds of Carats
The largest faceted moonstone weighs an whopping 565 carats and displays an intense blue glow. Another massive specimen found in Myanmar has been cut into a 1,400-carat cabochon.
Some Moonstones Glow Under UV Light
While moonstone is best known for its soft blue or white shimmer, some rare specimens contain trace elements that cause them to fluoresce a soft red colour under ultraviolet light.
Moonstone continues to captivate gemstone lovers with its shimmering beauty and rich history. Whether you’re drawn to its mystical past, scientific quirks, or simply its dreamy glow, there’s no denying that moonstone is a gem like no other.