mineral
White Moonstone (Feldspar)
Potassium aluminum silicate (KAlSi3O8)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Milky white with pearly luster; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.59.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Milky white with pearly luster
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Milky white with pearly luster; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.59.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks from cooling magma. High-quality specimens often come from pegmatites through an unmixing process of orthoclase and albite during cooling.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads) and as a decorative or healing stone in spiritual practices.
Geological facts
The shimmering effect seen in moonstone is called adularescence, caused by light scattering off internal layers of different feldspar minerals. It is the birthstone for June.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its pearly to opalescent luster and hardness (cannot be scratched by a copper penny but can scratch glass). Found in Sri Lanka, India, and Australia.
