About Moonstone Gemstone Information
Introduction to Moonstone
Of all the phenomenal gems - those displaying unique optical phenomena - moonstone stands out as the most abundant and affordable option. Its popularity has ebbed and flowed over time, much like the phases of the moon itself. It was a big hit with Victorian and Art Nouveau jewelers, and then saw another surge in the 1960s. In many cultures moonstone has held a special place, tied to plenty of romantic folklore and legends. Isn't it interesting how a simple stone can carry so much history?
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is the most famous member of the feldspar group. Technically, moonstone belongs to the orthoclase branch of the feldspar family, while rainbow moonstone gemstone falls under the labradorite branch.
Optical Phenomena
Moonstone's floating light, which seems to come from within, is called adularescence. This effect arises from structural anomalies inside the stone that refract or scatter incoming light. The size or thickness of these anomalies influences the color of the floating light. Rainbow moonstone, on the other hand, shows labradorescence - a play of colors on the surface caused by light diffraction in the rock layers. These effects are typically visible only when the stone is positioned just right relative to the light source and the viewer. Additionally, certain varieties exhibit asterism, as seen in star moonstone gems, or chatoyancy in cat's eye moonstone varieties.
Cutting and Shaping
In their raw form, moonstones look pretty ordinary, offering little hint of their inner shimmer. That mysterious glow only shines through after a skilled cutter works their magic. Traditional moonstones are cut as cabochons, with the height of the stone being key to enhancing the effect. The cutter has to align the crystal axes precisely at the top of the stone to bring out the desired shimmer properly.
Sources and Varieties
Moonstone deposits exist in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and India. Color variations mainly come from India, while other locations produce mostly white moonstone. In India, rainbow moonstone is sourced from the southwest, and blue varieties come from Bihar in the central region.
Cultural Significance
In 1970, just a year after American astronauts launched from Florida and touched down on the moon, Florida named moonstone its official state gemstone. Funny enough, moonstone isn't mined in Florida at all, and none was found on the actual moon. You might think Chanthaburi in Thailand - our home base - would be a better fit, since the name means "moon town" in Thai. But the founders there didn't seize the chance, even though Chanthaburi is a major hub for colored gem trading. Maybe it's because the local economy thrives on sapphire and ruby instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes moonstone a phenomenal gem?
Moonstone is considered phenomenal because it displays unique optical effects like adularescence, where light appears to float from within the stone.
Where is moonstone commonly found?
Moonstone is sourced from places like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and India, with color varieties mostly from India.
How is moonstone cut to show its best features?
Moonstone is typically cut en cabochon with precise height and crystal alignment to maximize its shimmering effect.
What is the difference between moonstone and rainbow moonstone?
Moonstone belongs to the orthoclase feldspar branch and shows adularescence, while rainbow moonstone is from the labradorite branch and displays labradorescence.
Why did Florida choose moonstone as its state gem?
Florida adopted moonstone in 1970 to commemorate the moon landing, despite it not being mined there or found on the moon.
