mineral

Moonstone

Orthoclase Feldspar ((K,Na)AlSi3O8) with Albite

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs; Color: White to colorless with blue or white sheen; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.59

Hardness: 6
Color: White to colorless with blue or white sheen
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 17, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs; Color: White to colorless with blue or white sheen; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.59

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through the cooling of magma or hydrothermal activity. The characteristic sheen (adularescence) occurs as thin layers of orthoclase and albite separate upon cooling, scattering light.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings) and for metaphysical or spiritual collection.

Geological facts

The shimmering effect is called adularescence. It was highly popular during the Art Nouveau period and is the state gem of Florida (to commemorate the moon landing).

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive pearly luster and light-scattering effect. Found in Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, and Madagascar. Collectors should look for high transparency and a strong blue 'flash'.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral