How is Natural Moonstone Made?

Moonstones are fascinating gemstones known for their captivating shimmer, a phenomenon called adularescence. This is a vibrant, natural optical effect similar to the shimmering appearance of the moon on a cloudless evening.

How is Moonstone Formed?

Moonstones are a variety of the mineral feldspar, specifically a type called orthoclase. The unique visual effect, adularescence, is caused by the scattering of light between microscopic layers of albite within the feldspar. These layers interfere with the light, creating the ethereal sheen that is characteristic of moonstones.

Where does Moonstone come from?

1. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is historically renowned for producing high-quality moonstones. The country has been a significant source for blue-sheen moonstones, particularly those with a bluish hue.

2. India: India is another traditional source of moonstones. The Indian moonstones often exhibit a variety of colours, including blue, green, and peach.

3. Madagascar: Moonstones are also found in Madagascar. Madagascar moonstones can display a range of colours, and some stones from this region may exhibit a cat's eye effect.

4. Myanmar: Myanmar has also been known to produce moonstones. The stones from this region can have a blue or white adularescence.

5. Brazil: Brazilian moonstones are relatively newer to the market. They are typically white or colourless with a blue adularescence.

6. United States: Certain areas in the United States, such as New Mexico and Pennsylvania, have also been known to yield moonstones.

It's important to note that moonstones are not exclusive to these regions, and they can be found in other parts of the world as well. The quality and colour of moonstones can vary, and factors such as transparency, clarity, and intensity of the adularescence influence their value.

Mining moonstones involves extracting them from pegmatite rocks, and the process requires expertise to minimise damage to the delicate crystals. Once mined, the rough stones are cut and polished to enhance their beauty and reveal the enchanting glow.

So, next time you're looking for some genuine Moonstone jewellery, you'll know more about where the gemstones have come from and how they've been formed.