mineral
Peach Moonstone
Potassium Aluminum Silicate (KAlSi3O8) with inclusions
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Peach, salmon, or orange-brown; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.59
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Peach, salmon, or orange-brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Peach, salmon, or orange-brown; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.59
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks from the cooling of magma, where orthoclase and albite separate into alternating layers, creating the adularescence effect as light reflects between the layers.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons, beads), for metaphysical practices, and by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The 'glow' or shimmer seen in moonstone is called adularescence, which is caused by the interference of light through the internal microscopic layers of feldspar. It was highly popular during the Art Nouveau period.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its warm peach color and characteristic internal glow when rotated under light. Commonly found in Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and India. Collectors look for stones with a strong shimmer and minimal surface cracks.
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