What is moonstone gem made from?

Moonstone is a variety of the feldspar-group mineral orthoclase

orthoclase

Orthoclase, or orthoclase feldspar (endmember formula KAlSi₃O₈), is an important tectosilicate mineral which forms igneous rock. The name is from the Ancient Greek for "straight fracture," because its two cleavage planes are at right angles to each other. It is a type of potassium feldspar, also known as K-feldspar.

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Orthoclase - Wikipedia

. It's composed of two feldspar minerals, orthoclase and albite. At first, the two minerals are intermingled. Then, as the newly formed mineral cools, the intergrown orthoclase and albite separate into stacked, alternating layers.

Is moonstone a real gem?

A: Moonstone is indeed a real gemstone, a member of the orthoclase feldspar family that also includes Labradorite and Sunstone, as well as Rainbow Moonstone and Amazonite. Moonstone is made of two minerals---orthoclase and albite---which form in stacked layers within the stone.

Is moonstone a man made stone?

Moonstone is a natural mineral that has a natural optical phenomenon perceived from our side as moonlight sheen. The mineral is absolutely natural, and it's not man-made. There are some man-made imitations of moonstone. They are artificial glasses that imitate the appearance of natural stone.

Where does the stone moonstone come from?

Traditionally, the classical moonstones, almost transparent and with their bluish shimmer, come from Sri Lanka. However, they are also found in the USA, Brazil, Australia, Myanmar and Madagascar.

Is moonstone gem valuable?

Prices for moonstones range from $10 to $1000, with clear moonstones free of inclusions, such as centipedes or unappealing greenish tints, commanding the highest prices.

What Is Moonstone - Gemstone Facts and Information

How do you tell if moonstone is real?

Moonstones are known for their adularescence – a unique optical illusion that results in a milky, bluish luster or glow on the surface of the gem. To test this aspect of the jewel, place it under bright artificial light and view it from above. If you notice the blue/white glow, your moonstone is probably real.

What happens if moonstone gets wet?

If you get your moonstone wet, don't worry, water won't ruin it. It is important not to leave the moonstone in the water for too long and not to let it come into contact with aggressive substances, such as cleaning products.

Why are moonstones so expensive?

Historically, the most valuable colorless, transparent moonstones with strong blue sheen came from Myanmar. Unfortunately, this material is essentially mined out. Most of the top-grade, blue sheen gems available today are being passed from one dealer or collector to another, which escalates the prices.

Where is moonstone found naturally?

The finest moonstones are found mainly in Sri Lanka and Southern India. Other varieties occur Australia, Armenia, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. The rainbow variety of moonstone can be found in India and Madagascar.

Is moonstone a quartz?

Moonstone Silestone Quartz is a bright white color stone speckled with luminous silver and grey.

Is moonstone a rock or mineral?

Moonstone is a mineral of the orthoclase feldspar group and is composed of potassium aluminum silicate. It is distinguished from other similar stones by the presence of adularescence.

What is natural moonstone?

Moonstone is a variety of the feldspar-group mineral orthoclase. During formation, orthoclase and albite separate into alternating layers. When light falls between these thin layers it is scattered producing the phenomenon called adularescence. Adularescence is the light that appears to billow across a gem.

How much is a moonstone worth?

Moonstones of gem quality are typically anywhere from $5/carat to $50/carat at the higher end. For an average-size ring or small bracelet, you're looking at $250 for top quality. The cost varies based on the adularescence displayed.

Is moonstone the same as opal?

Between these two stones, their chemical formulations are entirely different. Moonstone is a member of the feldspar group, one of the earth's most widespread minerals. Precisely speaking, it is composed of orthoclase and albite. On the other hand, Opal is a product is a product of the combination of water and silica.

Who should not wear moonstone?

* Moonstone should not be worn with cat's eye and hessonite. * It is said that moonstone is not for females, even though it powers the feminine. In men, using it to power your feminine can help in balancing your life. * Gemini should not wear this stone.

Is moonstone a crystal?

Moonstone is a natural crystal mineral that is thought to harvest the energy of the moon, which embodies yin's passive and relaxing energy. Similarly, this stone promotes positive well-being and balance, and enhances your intuition.

Why do they call it moonstone?

Name. Moonstone is aptly named for its likeness to the moon. Also known as Selenite, from the Greek 'selene' meaning moon and also the name of their moon goddess, and Adularia, a variety of Moonstone found in the European Alps that also lends its name to the optical phenomena unique to Moonstone, called adularescence.

Which birthstone is moonstone?

Moonstone Birthstone

This June birthstone has been associated with both the Roman and Greek lunar deities. Hindu mythology claims that it is made of solidified moonbeams. Moonstone is often associated with love, passion and fertility; it is believed to bring great luck.

Does moonstone scratch easily?

Moonstone has a Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 6.5. This means that moonstones are easily scratched and are prone to breaking. For that reason, pendants, necklaces and earrings are the safest ways to wear moonstones.

How long does moonstone last?

After you have worn the Moonstone silver ring for four days, you will begin to notice the ring has positive effects on your body and mind. These effects can last for up to 2 years after which you are advised to change it to a new Moonstone. You may find it hard to wear a Moonstone ring every day.

Is opal worth more than moonstone?

So, which one is more expensive? Typically, the opal quotes a higher price than the moonstone.

Can I wear a moonstone ring everyday?

If you look at the question from another angle, the moonstone can be worn every day because of its physical properties, but it is important to take care of your jewelry in time. Then your jewelry will last you for many years.

How do you recharge a moonstone?

After your moonstones are freshly cleaned, the best way to recharge their energy is by the light of the moon. Set your gems by the window overnight to let the moon empower it with fresh energy (a full moon is best).

Can you wear moonstone in shower?

Moonstone Care Do's:

Remove your moonstone jewelry when cleaning, showering, working out, and at night. Regular body oils, sweat, and lotion can build up quickly causing the stone to look matte in appearance. When storing your moonstone, wrap it in cloth to prevent scratching.