Knowledge

Moonstone

Moonstone is coveted for its attractive pearly sheen and is so named for its resemblance to the moon. Long used in jewellery, moonstone’s mystical properties ensure that it will continue to enchant for generations to come. 

Gemstones

What is a Moonstone?

Moonstone is a transparent to translucent gem, with a base colour which is often pale or colourless. It belongs to the mineral group feldspar- a mineral which makes up almost two thirds of all Earth's rocks. There are two varieties of feldspar which create moonstone- albite which is uncommon and orthoclase which is more prevalent. 

Moonstone is usually cut as a cabochon as this best displays its special characteristic which is known as ‘adularescence'. Its internal structure scatters the light that strikes it, creating this marvellous phenomenon which gives the effect of a billowing sheen moving over the surface of the gem when under a light source.

Adularescent moonstone was once called “adularia.” The name originated with a city in Switzerland, Mt. Adular (now St. Gotthard), that was one of the first sources of fine-quality moonstone.

History and Legends

With a silvery light that seems to shine from within, moonstone displays a celestial beauty that has captivated throughout history. This alluring pale gemstone, as the name suggests has long been closely associated with the moon. Some consider it an alternative birthstone for those born on Monday, the “Moon’s day”.

This beautiful gem has a long history of use as a talisman for love, fertility, protection and sleep. The Ancient Romans believed it was made up of the rays of the moon and identified it with lunar deities, such as the goddess Diana. Pliny, the Roman historian, thought that moonstone changed appearance with the phases of the moon- astonishingly a belief which persisted until the 16th century! 

In Hindu mythology, it was thought that this stone was made from solid moonbeams. At one time it was believed that if you held one in your mouth during a full moon, you would be able to see your future. In India, moonstone is still regarded as a sacred stone and is widely believed to bring good fortune and was a traditional wedding gift, thought to bring harmony to the marriage.

Moonstone in jewellery 

Moonstone jewellery became popular in the 19th century, with master designers of the romantic Art Nouveau era, such as Louis Comfort Tiffany and René Lalique featuring this magnificent gem in their bespoke jewels. 

Artisans of the Arts and Craft movement used the combination of silver and moonstone in their handcrafted pieces, and it later became a firm favourite during the 1960s ‘flower child’ movement, providing its wearers with the coveted ethereal look. In the 1990s, the New Age movement again turned to moonstone’s lunar loveliness for inspiration.

Berganza’s moonstone jewellery

Moonstone is a charming and ethereal choice of gem, and here at Berganza we have an exclusive collection of antique and vintage moonstone pieces for your discovery. 

A Victorian moonstone bracelet is an elegant addition to any outfit and can be paired with this impressive pendant, with the moonstone weighing around 75 carats! 

Our moonstone ring also features flashes of green, with a border of emeralds and diamonds and these Art Deco moonstone earrings catch the light, producing a rainbow of colours!

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FAQs


Is moonstone good for an engagement ring?   

Whilst not the hardest gemstone, measuring a 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, a moonstone is a wonderfully personal and unique choice for an engagement ring, as long as a bit of care is required when worn!

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Is moonstone a birthstone?   

Moonstone is the second birthstone of June, after the pearl. A beautiful combination often seen in jewellery!

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Where is moonstone found?   

Historic sources were found in Switzerland and Austria and today, Sri Lanka is the major source of the best quality moonstone, with other sources including the USA, Madagascar and Myanmar.

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Updated 21/12/2024 at 3:11PM

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