Peach Moonstone

Physical Properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Peach, salmon, or pinkish-tan; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Adularescence (schiller effect) is a key feature.

Formation & Geological History

Formed in plutonic and metamorphic rocks. The unique visual effect (adularescence) is caused by the intergrowth of two types of feldspar (orthoclase and albite) with different refractive indices that separate as the magma cools.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons, beads, rings) and as a lapidary material for decorative carvings or as a collector's specimen.

Geological Facts

Ancient Romans and Greeks associated moonstone with lunar deities. The peach variety is highly sought after in modern jewelry for its warm, skin-tone matching hues and soft pearly glow.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its soft peach color and its characteristic 'inner glow' or adularescence that moves across the surface. Commonly found in Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, and Madagascar.

Identified on: 4/16/2026

Mode: Standard