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Considered a birthstone for February, moonstone belongs to the mineral family of Feldspar, which provide almost two thirds of stones on the earth. However, only a small percentage of feldspars fall into the ‘gem quality’ range.

This gemstone is made up of many layers. Light enters the stone and refracts among the layers before leaving the stone. The sheen effect, which is called schiller or adularescence, is caused by the intergrowth of 2 different types of feldspar, orthoclase and albite, with different refractive indexes. These intergrowths result from compatible chemistries at high temperatures becoming incompatible at lower temperatures creating a separating and layering of the 2 phases when the stone cools down.

Rainbow moonstone is part of the labradorite feldspar.

Feldspar can be found in many locations throughout the world. The finest blue examples can be found in Mogok, Burma (Myanmar). Most of the traditional mines in Sri Lanka are now closed. It can also be found in Madagasgar, India and Brazil.

It has a hardness rating of 6. Although reasonably tough, it can be fragile so should be handled with care. Small damages can arise after long periods of being worn, however it is possible for these to be polished away. This must be considered when choosing to commission a bespoke engagement ring from us.

This gemstone comes in a variety of colours including white, grey, brown, yellow, green, pink, blue. Some will have an eye as well as a sheen.

The clarity can range from transparent to translucent. Theys can contain inclusions, which appear to be tress cracks.

There is no treatment known which enhances its quality.

The most valued stones have a blue sheen, perfect clarity, and a colourless body colour. However, recently an extremely rare and stunning Golden Moonstone from Mogok, Burma arrived on the market. The very few stones produced are sold at very high prices whilst more common white stones can be very affordable.

These gemstones are usually cut in a smooth domed cabochon shape to maximise the effect. The height of the stone is also essential to get this effect. The cutter must also bear in mind to locate the crystal axis exactly in the zenith of the stone. They can also be cut as cameos or sometimes engraved with a moon face.

Around 100 years ago moonstone was very popular. It was used to decorate many pieces of jewellery created by Rene Lalique and his colleagues.

The Romans are said to have thought that this gemstone was formed out of moonlight. It is believed to reflect the powers of the sea and moon. Women wore it to help with their menstrual cycles as it is said to soothe and balance the emotions and encourages inner growth and strength. It also aids peace and harmony and psychic abilities.

In India, it is considered a sacred stone. Also known as a ‘dream stone’ it is believed to bring about sweet and beautiful dreams. In Arab countries, women wear it, it is known as a symbol of fertility. The soft shine will support the emotional and dreamy tendencies of a person. This association makes it the perfect stone for lovers, believed to bring forth feelings of tenderness, passion and to protect true love.

During the full moon, apparently men can predict the future by placing this gemstone in their mouth!