gemstone
Moonstone
Orthoclase potassium feldspar, (K,Na)AlSi3O8
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, translucent to opaque white or grey color with adularescence, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, translucent to opaque white or grey color with adularescence, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like granites and pegmatites, as well as in hydrothermal veins during cooling and exsolution of alkali feldspars.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry such as rings and pendants, and collected for its unique optical phenomenon.
Geological facts
Moonstone exhibits adularescence, a floating shimmer of light caused by microscopic lamellar intergrowths of albite and orthoclase.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its signature pearly sheen and adularescence; primarily sourced from Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Myanmar.
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