Moonstone, distinct from the elegant allure of pearls, exudes a mysterious and gentle charm. Over three centuries ago, this serene gemstone adorned the jewelry of Emperor Akbar and his beloved consort, Jodha Bai, during India’s Mughal dynasty. Its tranquil glow, resembling moonlight captured in stone, captivated countless lovers. According to Indian legends, moonstone is believed to possess divine lunar energy. Wearing it during a full moon is said to bring a romance as radiant as moonlight itself. Native Americans also revered moonstone as a sacred gem, and it is celebrated as both the birthstone for June and the traditional gemstone for a 13th wedding anniversary.

Moonstone’s unique adularescence—a captivating shimmer—is akin to drops of milk swirling in a clear glass of water. Its surface displays a mesmerizing bluish sheen that shifts with the angle of light, enchanting all who behold it. The history of moonstone stretches back over 2,000 years to ancient Rome, where it was already prized as a gemstone. By the 19th century, moonstone jewelry had taken the market by storm, inspiring dreams and imagination.

The Science Behind Moonstone’s Glow

Moonstone is composed of two minerals: orthoclase and albite. These minerals grow in alternating, parallel layers, creating a unique structure that scatters and interferes with light entering the stone. This interplay produces the iconic bluish-white glow, known as adularescence. Moonstones come in various base colors, including transparent white, yellow, green, and dark brown. Based on their glowing hues, moonstones are classified into three main types: blue moonstone, yellow moonstone, and white moonstone.

Blue Moonstone

Blue Moonstone

Blue moonstones, with their transparent base and delicate blue shimmer, are the most valuable variety.

Yellow Moonstone

Yellow Moonstone

Yellow moonstones, with their warm, earthy yellow hue, are second in value only to blue moonstones.

White Moonstone

White Moonstone

White moonstones, though less lustrous than blue or yellow varieties, are known for their milky white glow. In the market, they are often categorized into “glass-like” or “creamy” types, depending on the proportions of orthoclase and albite.

Evaluating Moonstone Quality

Moonstone quality is assessed using criteria similar to other gemstones, including color, adularescence, transparency, inclusions, and craftsmanship.

  • Adularescence: The “moonlight” glow should be bright and vivid, with a central blue flash as the most desirable feature. Yellow and white glows are secondary.
  • Transparency: The clearer the gemstone, the higher its value.
  • Texture and Inclusions: Stones free of blemishes and inclusions are preferred.
  • Cut: A well-proportioned cut that enhances the adularescence adds to its value.

Conclusion

With its serene glow and enchanting history, moonstone embodies the gentle yet resilient qualities of femininity. As a symbol of romance, hope, and inner strength, this June birthstone is not only a gem to admire but a talisman to cherish.

To explore more about birthstones, please refer to Uncover the Hidden Magic of Birthstone with Months: Ancient Wisdom.