gemstone
Moonstone
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8) or Oligoclase with adularescence
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Colorless to white/bluish; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Features adularescence (a blue or white pearly sheen).
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Colorless to white/bluish
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Colorless to white/bluish; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Features adularescence (a blue or white pearly sheen).
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically pegmatites, as cooling magma allows intergrowth of orthoclase and albite layers.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry as cabochons, earrings, or rings; also used as a birthstone and for spiritual/metaphysical collection.
Geological facts
The unique glow, called adularescence, is caused by light scattering between microscopic layers of different feldspar minerals. It was incredibly popular during the Art Nouveau period.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic 'milky' or 'blueish' glow that moves across the surface as the stone is turned. It is commonly found in Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar.
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