Rainbow moonstone
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Rainbow Moonstone vs. Moonstone
Moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar with the chemical composition KAlSi3O8 (potassium aluminum silicate). It can be found in a variety of colors, including white, cream, gray, silver, peach, and black. While they do display adularescence, it is not as colorful as the flash found in rainbow moonstone.
Rainbow moonstone, on the other hand, is a plagioclase feldspar with the chemical composition (Na,Ca)Al1-2Si3-2O8 (sodium calcium aluminum silicate). This composition is the same as labradorite, which explains its labradorescence—a phenomenon also seen in labradorite. Despite its name, rainbow moonstone is actually a type of white labradorite and often contains black tourmaline inclusions.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Rainbow Moonstone
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of rainbow moonstone enhances our appreciation of this captivating gemstone. Below are some key properties:
| General | |
|---|---|
| Category | Silicate mineral |
| Formula (repeating unit) | KAlSi3O8 |
| IMA symbol | Or[1] |
| Strunz classification | 9.FA.30 |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Crystal class | Prismatic (2/m) |
| Space group | C2/m |
| Identification | |
|---|---|
| Color | Colorless, greenish, greyish yellow, white, pink |
| Crystal habit | Can be anhedral or euhedral; grains are commonly elongate with a tabular appearance |
| Twinning | Typically displays Carlsbad twinning; Baveno and Manebach twins have also been reported |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {001} and good on {010}; cleavages intersect at 90° |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Mohs scale hardness | 6 (defining mineral) |
| Luster | Vitreous, pearly on cleavage surfaces |
| Streak | White |
| Diaphaneity | Transparent to translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.55–2.63 |
| Optical properties | Biaxial (−), 2V = 65–75° |
| Refractive index | nα = 1.518–1.520 nβ = 1.522–1.524 nγ = 1.522–1.525 |
| Birefringence | 0.0050–0.0060 |
| Dispersion | Relatively strong |
| Extinction | Parallel to cleavage |
| Diagnostic features | Distinguishable from microcline by a lack of gridiron twinning; distinguishable from sanidine by a larger 2Vx |
| Other characteristics | Low negative relief; commonly alters to sericite or clay |
These properties contribute to the gemstone’s unique optical phenomena and durability. With a Mohs hardness of 6, rainbow moonstone is suitable for various types of jewelry but should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage.
Care and Maintenance
Like other feldspar gemstones such as amazonite and labradorite, rainbow moonstone is sensitive to chemicals, abrasives, heat, acids, and ammonia. Never use a steamer, hot water, or ultrasonic cleaners with this gemstone. Use mild soap and room-temperature water with a soft cloth to maintain its luster.
Deposits
Rainbow moonstone deposits are found in Canada, Australia, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Russia, Sri Lanka, and the USA.
Rainbow Moonstone Meaning and Healing Properties
The following section is pseudoscientific and based on cultural beliefs.
The gemstone is thought to bring balance, harmony, and hope while enhancing creativity, compassion, endurance, and inner confidence. It is believed to help strengthen intuition and psychic perception, offering visions of things that aren’t immediately obvious. By helping us avoid tunnel vision, we can see other possibilities and experience flashes of inspiration when we are open and receptive. Wearing this stone may lead to life-changing insights more often.
FAQ
What is rainbow moonstone good for?
Rainbow moonstone is thought to bring balance, harmony, and hope while enhancing creativity, compassion, endurance, and inner confidence. It is believed to strengthen intuition and psychic perception, offering visions of things that aren’t immediately obvious.
How do you care for rainbow moonstone?
Rainbow moonstones are delicate and should be handled with care. To clean, use warm water with mild soap. A soft-bristled brush may be used if necessary. Dry with a soft cloth and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
What finger do you wear a rainbow moonstone ring on?
To gain the most benefit from this stone, it is recommended to wear it in a sterling silver ring on the small finger of the right hand, according to astrological practices.
How can you tell if a rainbow moonstone is real?
A real rainbow moonstone can be identified by its characteristic adularescence, which appears as an internal light or sheen. It can be distinguished from orthoclase moonstone by its higher refractive index and specific gravity.
Is rainbow moonstone natural?
Yes, rainbow moonstone is a natural gemstone. It is a colorless form of labradorite, a closely related feldspar mineral with a sheen in a variety of iridescent colors. Although not a true moonstone, it is accepted in the trade as a gem in its own right.
How hard is rainbow moonstone?
Rainbow moonstone has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, making it somewhat softer compared to other gemstones but still suitable for jewelry if cared for properly.
What is the price of blue rainbow moonstone?
Translucent material, whether white or with a pleasing body color and adularescence, is fairly common in the market and commands relatively modest prices. The value depends on the quality of the adularescence and overall appearance.
Natural Rainbow Moonstone for Sale in Our Shop
We create custom-made rainbow moonstone jewelry, including engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Please contact us for a quote.
