
mineral
Tumbled Moonstone
Feldspar (Orthoclase/Albite), KAlSi3O8
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs; Color: White, cream, with pearly adularescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- White, cream, with pearly adularescence
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs; Color: White, cream, with pearly adularescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, specifically in pegmatites. The characteristic sheen is caused by the alternating layers of orthoclase and albite as the mineral cools.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and by crystal collectors for its aesthetic and perceived metaphysical properties.
Geological facts
The unique play of light is called adularescence, which mimics the glow of the moon. It was a popular stone during the Art Nouveau period and is the birthstone for June.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its soft pearly luster and light play. It is commonly found in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Myanmar. Field identification focuses on the internal glow and orthogonal cleavage angles.
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