Moonstone are one of my favorite gemstones because they symbolize the coolness of the night and the beauty of the moon. Down the ages, moonstone have always been prized for helping with matters of the heart, and it is a distinct “watery” and “feminine” stone.

Moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar and comprises a complex mineral formula of KAlSi3O8, or roughly speaking – potassium aluminum silicate. Possessing a hardness of around 6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstone is more sought after for its translucent beauty (adularescence), rather than durability.

The light display of moonstone is influenced by the presence of layers of orthoclase feldspar and albite, which interferes with the display of light passing through. It is a kind of chatoyancy which slightly resembles the chatoyancy found in tiger eye. Normally found in colors of gray, white, or blue, there also exists pinkish or greenish colored moonstones; these are not common. The most highly valued moonstone variety is the blue moonstone, and high demand has led to a decline in the number of blue moonstones found.

This piece of moonstone jewelry shows just how lovely its blue shades can be.

Sri Lanka and India are the two most well known sources of moonstone; indeed it is held in high regard in these countries as a sacred stone, and one that brings good luck to the wearer. Elsewhere, moonstone is also found in Madagascar, Myanmar, Tanzania, Brazil, and USA.

In regards to its metaphysical properties, moonstone balances the “yin” and “yang,” reduce emotional tension, promotes growth and well being, and helps one to “feel.” Moonstone assists in digestion and helps the body to rejuvenate itself. It can help in increasing psychic abilities, since it stimulates the “feeling” and receptive aspect of the persona, probably more than any other gemstone.

The energy of moonstone is gradual, and patient. It does not “hurry,” but goes through cyclical phases, just like the moon in the night. As an antidote for insomnia, moonstone is well known for promoting deep sleep and pleasant dreams, and it is also a stone for travel, as in protecting the traveler from hidden perils.