Moonstone

Information About Moonstone:

Moonstone is a type of orthoclase feldspar that is popular for the "shiller" effect it produces with refracted light.

This stone usually contains many types of inclusions which cause various types of visual effects, the most desirable of which is a cat's eye-like chatoyancy. Many colors occur in nature, including blue, gray, white, green, pink, and brown. Blue is considered the most desirable color. Specimins with strong color play are marketed as "rainbow moonstone".

MOST COMMON COLOR: Gray or Blue.

HARDNESS ON MOH'S SCALE: 6 to 6.5

SHAPES FOR CUTTING: Only suitable for polished cabochons or inlay, to take advantage of the stone's optical properties. Often carved into a "moon face" for use as a pendant.