Moonstone Beads

Moonstone beads are composed of a mineral scientifically called orthoclase and/or plagioclase feldspar. The name, moonstone, is based on the moonglow effect created as light reflects from the internal structure of the stone, making it an appealing element in one's jewelry supplies. Significant sources of moonstone include Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), India, Australia, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, Tanzania, Europe, and the United States. It is the Florida state gemstone, even though it is not found there.

Moonstone is a birthstone for June. It is associated with the zodiac sign of Gemeni. In India, moonstone is said to bring good fortune and as a tool to promote spiritual enlightenment.

Moonstone is translucent to opaque milky white, yellow, gray, orange, or peach, occasionally with blue iridescence. A variety of moonstone, called rainbow moonstone, has a multi-colored iridescence reflecting all the colors of the rainbow. Gemstone beads and cabochons of moonstone hold a special feminine spot among jewelry supplies, as its neutral color, subtle flashiness, and affordability work together to make it very appealing. Of course, white and gray moonstone blend with all other stones, but the orange or peach moonstone mate particularly well with carnelian, red aventurine, earth-toned jaspers, goldstone, sugulite, and unakite gemstone beads.

common treatments: none

special care: avoid impact, abrasion, and harsh chemicals

hardness: 6 - 6.5