A Guide to Moonstone Properties: What Makes It Glow?

Moonstone properties give this gemstone a magical appeal that draws in collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Its ethereal glow and captivating optical effects make moonstone a standout among other gemstones.

If you’re thinking about buying moonstone gemstones but don’t know what to look for, this blog can guide you in the right direction. Here, we’ll talk about the meaning of moonstone crystals and their various qualities to help you make a confident purchase.

What Is Moonstone?

Moonstone is a good luck gemstone, known for its gentle, moonlit glow. It forms deep beneath the Earth’s surface in volcanic and metamorphic rocks, with major sources in countries like India, Sri Lanka and Madagascar. The stone’s distinctive optical effect, called adularescence, results from light scattering within its layered structure.

Many turn to this gemstone for its acclaimed spiritual qualities. Some perceived moonstone benefits include:

• Strengthening of connection to the moon
• Enhancement of intuition and clairvoyance  
• Promotion of emotional balance and calmness  
• Support for personal growth and new beginnings  

Aside from their mystical appeal, moonstones attract buyers for their luminous quality and ability to complement a range of jewelry styles.

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Emerald Cut Birthstone Moonstone Pendant Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold (8x6mm)

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Oval Birthstone Moonstone Stud Earrings in 14K White Gold (7x5mm)

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Moonstone Properties Explained

Moonstone’s chemical composition places it in the feldspar mineral group. In other words, it shares qualities with stones such as labradorite and amazonite. Other factors affect the stone’s properties as well. For instance, the refractive index determines how bright and lively the stone looks when viewed from different angles.

Having insight into these properties helps you identify high-quality moonstone crystals and avoid lower-value options. Here’s a detailed look at the stone’s key characteristics.

Key Qualities of Moonstone Crystals

Let’s break down what these moonstone properties reveal about the piece’s durability, appearance and value.

Optical Phenomena

Adularescence is a soft, glowing sheen that appears to float across the stone’s surface like moonlight on water, hence the name “moonstone.” The cat’s-eye effect produces a bright, narrow band of light that shifts with movement. Both effects add depth and magic to moonstone’s beauty.

Hardness Level

With a Mohs Scale of Hardness of 6.0-6.5, moonstone is moderately soft. It’s less durable than quartz (7) but more resilient than turquoise (5). This means it can scratch easily if you don’t handle it carefully, especially in rings and bracelets.

Weight Range

Moonstone’s specific gravity of 2.58 makes it slightly lighter than quartz (2.65) and much lighter than sapphire (around 4.0). This moderate weight makes it comfortable to wear, but it still needs protection from impacts to avoid chipping or breaking. 

Color Impact

Stones with strong optical effects fetch premium prices because of their aesthetic, meaning rainbow moonstones and clear or white varieties cost more. Muted colors like peach, gray and brown are more affordable due to their lower transparency and less dramatic visual properties.

What Do Moonstones Signify?

Moonstone holds deep cultural significance worldwide, symbolizing intuition and new beginnings. Origins trace back to ancient civilizations, like the Hindus and Romans, who associated it with lunar energies and mystical powers. 

Here’s a closer look at different moonstone meanings and what they signify:

• Intuition and clairvoyance: Many believe that moonstone sharpens intuitive insights and psychic abilities, helping wearers tap into their inner wisdom for spiritual guidance.
• Physical healing: Some cultures associate moonstone with physical well-being and stress relief.
• Travel protection: Travelers often carry moonstone for protection, trusting it to ward off danger, accidents and negative energies during journeys.
• Emotional balance and stability: Those seeking emotional stability turn to moonstone’s soothing properties to ease anxiety and cultivate inner calm.
• New beginnings and personal growth: This gemstone inspires fresh starts and growth. It encourages embracing change and pursuing personal goals with renewed energy.
• Birthstone for June: As one of June’s birthstone, moonstone embodies purity and emotional depth, making it a cherished gift for those born in this month.

How Are Moonstones Graded on Quality?

Moonstone quality grading hinges on the 4Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These criteria will help guide you in identifying exceptional moonstones and making informed purchasing decisions. 

Here’s a breakdown of how each C affects the gemstone’s overall look and value:

• Color: The most prized moonstone crystals show a bright, electric blue or pure white hue. A less intense gemstone color, with a duller appearance or an opaque hue, lowers the moonstone’s market price but still retains visual charm.
• Clarity: Gemstone clarity directly affects a stone’s appearance and desirability. Premium moonstones exhibit minimal inclusions. Some natural tension cracks are acceptable if they don’t detract from the stone’s brilliance.
• Cut: Jewelers cut most moonstones as cabochons to maximize optical effects like adularescence. A well-executed gemstone cut evenly displays the stone’s shimmering glow, enhancing its visual appeal and value.
• Carat Weight: Gemstone size impacts value, with bigger stones being more desirable in the market. Larger moonstone crystals, especially those with strong optical effects, fetch higher prices.

How to Take Care of Your Moonstone

Proper care extends the life and luster of your moonstone jewelry. You must be gentle when handling the piece and follow proper cleaning routines to prevent damage. 

Use these simple steps to keep your moonstone looking its best:  

1. Soak with lukewarm water: Wash your moonstone in lukewarm water with mild soap if needed. Steer clear of ultrasonic or steam cleaning methods that risk cracking or fading the stone.
2. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth: Gently wipe the moonstone until it’s completely dry. Never use rough or abrasive materials that could scratch and weaken the surface.
3. Avoid harsh machines, chemicals or conditions: Keep your moonstone away from extreme heat and chemicals. Harsh conditions can cause damage and discoloration.
4. Put your moonstone piece on last: Wear your jewelry after applying lotions, perfumes or hair products. These substances can dull the stone’s glow and cause buildup over time.
5. Store your moonstone separately: Place it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches from other pieces. Proper storage protects its surface and optical properties.

Find a Moonstone Piece with Blue Nile

The unique properties of moonstone make it a captivating choice, while its ethereal glow and symbolic meanings add depth to any piece. If you want to buy moonstone engagement rings or other jewelry with this gemstone, Blue Nile offers an extensive collection for you to choose from.

Blue Nile features moonstones alongside other gemstones like sapphires and emeralds. Our selection includes rings, necklaces and earrings crafted to highlight each stone’s natural beauty. Browse our gemstone jewelry collection today to find the moonstone pieces that resonate with your style.

Blake Lapides Senior Director, Marketing

Blake Lapides is a GIA AJP (Applied Jewelry Professional) with 6+ years of experience in the fine jewelry and engagement business. He is a diamond enthusiast with a strong foundation in the 4Cs and a deep appreciation for how craftsmanship, cut quality, and design come together to create meaningful jewelry. Blake brings a thoughtful, detail-driven perspective to fine jewelry and a genuine passion for jewelry design, history, and modern trends.

All articles by Blake Lapides

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