gemstone

White Moonstone

Feldspar (Orthoclase or Albite), (K,Na)AlSi3O8

Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to translucent with a characteristic pearly to vitreous luster and adularescence (a floating shimmer of light). Crystal Structure: Monoclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6 on the Mohs scale

Identified August 1, 2026More gemstone →

Explore White Moonstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when molten rock (magma) cools slowly, creating alternating layers of orthoclase and albite. As the mineral cools, these layers separate into microscopic thin sheets that scatter light, creating the iconic sheen.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry-making for rings, earrings, pendants, and beaded bracelets like the one shown. Also collected as a polished gemstone and used in metaphysical healing.

Geological facts

Moonstone is deeply connected to lunar lore in various cultures; ancient Romans believed it was formed from solidified moonlight, while Eastern traditions associated it with spiritual harmony and intuition.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive adularescence (schiller effect) where light appears to billow across the stone. Commonly sourced from India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Myanmar.

Other gemstone specimens

See all

Diamond and Gold Jewelry

Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)

gemstone

Ammolite

Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)

mineral

Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond

ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)

gemstone

Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions

sedimentary

Black Opal Ring (Carved Opal)

Hydrated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2·nH2O)

gemstone

Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)

Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)

gemstone