Hecatolite Basics: Understanding the Different Classes of Moonstone
The Romans believed moonstones were crystallized moonlight. All moonstone varieties are undoubtedly beautiful. Dive into this comprehensive guide to learn more about them.
Keyword(s): types of moonstone
Moonstone is an immensely popular gemstone frequently utilized in various pieces of jewelry. With a fascinating history, ancient cultures held the belief that the stone was crafted from moonbeams. Its soft color and vibrant luminosity create an impressive glow, reminiscent of a piece carved directly from the lunar surface.
Moonstone exists in an array of colors and sheens, each type boasting unique properties and characteristics.
This article delves into the numerous types of moonstone, allowing you to gain insights into this ancient and stunning gem.
Defining Moonstone
Moonstone, belonging to the feldspar mineral family, is an opalescent gemstone available in a spectrum of colors. The stones’ clarity ranges from opaque to transparent. As one of June’s birthstones, moonstone was among the initial ones certified in 1912.
The way it plays with light, known as adularescence, results from light refracting through the layers of albite and orthoclase within the stone, giving the impression of floating light.
Moonstone showcases various types and colors. Let’s explore some of the most sought-after varieties.
Blue moonstone, with a transparent and crystal-clear surface, allows the floating blue hue to be easily visible. Its bold blue color is highly popular among moonstone types.
The finest and largest pieces hail from Burma. However, good-quality blue moonstones have become increasingly scarce, driving their prices up.
Due to its numerous layers, blue moonstone is brittle and can easily break under pressure, demanding careful handling by jewelers.
Many believe blue moonstone possesses healing energies and promotes inner vision and mental clarity, helping the wearer stay focused and aware of their surroundings.
Rainbow moonstone features a patchy, milky appearance due to its empty orthoclastic textures and inclusions. The reflective inclusions and layers produce a rainbow effect when exposed to light, making it a popular choice for silver moonstone jewelry.
Typically, a rainbow moonstone appears as a creamy white stone with random iridescent flashes, varying from semi-translucent to opaque.
This type is optimal for witnessing a display of colors under natural light and is sourced from diverse regions, including:
- Russia
- Sri Lanka
- China
- India
- Madagascar
- Australia
Rainbow moonstone is usually found in small quantities.
Believed to possess healing properties, it connects to one’s mental state and emotions, shielding from negative influences and providing protection.
Pink moonstone encompasses a spectrum beyond just pink, including shades of peach, honey, and beige.
Its shine results in a star or cat’s eye appearing on its surface, commonly used for painted bead columns.
Pink or peach moonstones are thought to reignite inner passion, stimulate the mind, and alleviate anxiety. They are also believed to soothe anger and depression.
Green moonstone, though less common than blue or rainbow varieties, is still captivating. It often appears slightly transparent or white, with a light yellow-green hue underneath.
Silver moonstone, with its translucent gray and silver color, is sometimes referred to as the “Stone of the New Moon,” believed to harness the powers and secrets of new moon cycles.
It is thought to instill calmness and awaken intuitive and reflective powers during full moons, aiding in easing frustration.
Some claim silver moonstone helps treat insomnia by placing it under their pillow for a restful sleep.
White moonstone, with a soft, watery opacity, is silvery-white in color and was favored in ancient India for both silver and gold jewelry.
Many believe white moonstone embodies the energy of the new moon, stimulating psychic visions, dreamwork, and perception. Some also think it can amplify emotions.
Treasure for its value as a talisman in ancient cultures, white moonstone was used to enhance intuition and attract luck. Wearers believed it brought calmness during challenging changes.
Are Labradorite and Moonstone the Same?
Although some jewelers and retailers use the terms labradorite and moonstone interchangeably, they are not the same. While both are part of the feldspar family, labradorite forms in basalt, norite, and gabbro formations.
Some labradorite stones exhibit the schiller effect, where light scintillates differently because of the crystal structure, but this is different from moonstone’s light effect.
Moonstone refracts less light compared to labradorite, which is more common and therefore less costly.
The primary distinction lies in their colors: moonstones generally display one color in various sheens, whereas labradorite can exhibit a full color spectrum.
Exploring Moonstone Varieties
With a multitude of moonstone varieties available, exploring different shades to find your favorites can be enjoyable. Their delicate nature makes moonstone jewelry a perfect match for any outfit and occasion.
Discover our extensive collection of moonstone jewelry today.
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