Moonstone

About Moonstone

Named for its adularescence - a floating blue-white light that moves across the surface like moonlight. Ancient Romans believed it was formed from frozen moonlight. In India, it is considered a sacred and magical dream stone. Rainbow moonstone is actually a variety of labradorite, not true moonstone. The effect is caused by light scattering between microscopic feldspar layers. Art Nouveau jewelers like Rene Lalique used it extensively. It is the state gem of Florida. The finest blue sheen moonstones come from Sri Lanka. It has been associated with lunar deities in every culture that encountered it. Prices have increased significantly as high-quality material becomes scarce.