mineral
Tumbled pink feldspar (likely moonstone or orthoclase)
Potassium feldspar, chiefly orthoclase (KAlSi₃O₈); possibly adularescent moonstone
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale pink, cream, and gray rounded pebble with a waxy to vitreous luster and visible cloudy translucence. Feldspar hardness is about 6–6.5 Mohs, with two good cleavage directions; the image does not clearly show diagnostic blue adularescence.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Tumbled pink feldspar (likely moonstone or orthoclase) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pale pink, cream, and gray rounded pebble with a waxy to vitreous luster and visible cloudy translucence. Feldspar hardness is about 6–6.5 Mohs, with two good cleavage directions; the image does not clearly show diagnostic blue adularescence.
Formation & geological history
Formed by crystallization in silica-rich igneous rocks such as granite or pegmatite; feldspars are mainly Precambrian to Phanerozoic in age. Tumbled surfaces are human-processed from naturally occurring material.
Uses & applications
Used as an ornamental and lapidary stone, in carvings and cabochons, and industrially in glass and ceramics. Ordinary tumbled pieces have modest collector value.
Geological facts
Moonstone is an intergrowth of feldspar varieties that scatters light to produce a floating sheen; pink coloration commonly reflects trace iron or other impurities. Similar appearance can also come from pink microcline or orthoclase.
Field identification & locations
Identify by pink/cream color, moderate translucence, glassy-waxy luster, and cleavage; a blue-white floating flash supports moonstone identification. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and the United States.
