gemstone
Rainbow Moonstone
White Labradorite (Plagioclase Feldspar), (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: White to colorless with blue or multicolored adularescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- White to colorless with blue or multicolored adularescence
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: White to colorless with blue or multicolored adularescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through the slow cooling of magma, allowing for the separation of different feldspars into layers that scatter light.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants; also highly valued by mineral collectors and for metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
While commonly called 'Moonstone', rainbow moonstone is technically a variety of labradorite. The play of color is caused by light scattering between layers of albite and orthoclase feldspar, a phenomenon known as labradorescence.
Field identification & locations
Look for a distinct 'glow' or flash of color (adularescence) when rotated under light. Major deposits are found in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Australia.
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