mineral

Peach Moonstone

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Peach, tan, or light orange; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at 90 degrees; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.59

Hardness: 6
Color: Peach, tan, or light orange
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Peach, tan, or light orange; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at 90 degrees; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.59

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic igneous rocks (granites and pegmatites). The characteristic sheen, known as adularescence, is caused by the intergrowth of two types of feldspar that separate during cooling.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons, beads) and as a popular specimen for crystal healing and mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Ancient Romans theorized that moonstone was formed from frozen moonlight. It is the Florida State Gemstone (commemorating the Apollo moon landings), despite not being found naturally there.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pearly sheen (adularescence) that moves across the surface. Commonly found in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Myanmar.