Birthstone: One of June's birthstones out of a possible 3, moonstone is the gemstone most associated with the zodiac sign Gemini.
Meaning: This June birthstone is claimed to be made of solid moonbeams in Hindu mythology, along with being believed to bring love, passion, and great luck.
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is a gemstone made up of sodium potassium aluminium silicate, from the feldspar group that displays a pearly and opalescent look. The name moonstone comes from the stone’s characteristics and visual effect, called schiller. This effect is caused by light diffraction through alternating layers of the stone. The diffracted light varies from white to blue, depending on the thinness of the layers.
Where does Moonstone come from?
This gemstone is found all over the world, with the finest moonstone being found mainly in Sri Lanka and Southern India. Other varieties of this gemstone are found in Australia, Armenia, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. The rainbow variety of moonstone however can mainly be found in India and Madagascar.
What is the meaning of Moonstone?
Moonstone is considered a feminine stone, a lucky charm linked to the tides, the earth, mothers, emotions, and the nature of women. All the while authentic moonstone jewellery represents a channel of inner wisdom and great luck along with being thought to be an emotional healer. Moonstone is believed to help you maintain emotional equilibrium and give you self-assurance.
How to care for Moonstone?
Moonstone is a gemstone that falls between 6 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale, meaning it is on the delicate side and has a poor toughness. This makes it a gemstone that needs great care for it to stay at its best quality. Moonstone should be kept out of high heat or sudden temperature change as this can cause breaks in the gemstone when exposed to heat. When cleaning this gemstone warm soapy water is the only recommended substance, used with a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not suitable as they can damage this precious gemstone.
