gemstone
Moonstone
Potassium aluminum silicate (KAlSi3O8)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to white/gray with blue or white schiller; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Colorless to white/gray with blue or white schiller
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to white/gray with blue or white schiller; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in plutonic igneous rocks (pegmatites) through the intergrowth of orthoclase and albite. As the cooling magma solidifies, the two minerals separate into alternating layers, causing the adularescence effect.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads, rings) and for spiritual or metaphysical collection.
Geological facts
The characteristic blue glow of moonstone is known as adularescence, named after Mt. Adular in Switzerland, an early source of the stone. It is the birthstone for June.
Field identification & locations
Look for the unique billowy internal light (schiller) that moves across the stone's surface as it is rotated. It is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Myanmar.
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