By Chisom Ibemere
Rainbow Moonstone is a mesmerizing gemstone known for its iridescent play of colors. It is predominantly found in India, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States.
It has been revered for centuries and holds a rich history in various cultures. It was believed to be solidified moonbeams in ancient Rome while in India, it has been regarded as a sacred stone imbued with spiritual energy.
Rainbow Moonstone is a variety of orthoclase feldspar mineral that belongs to the same family as Labradorite and Sunstone.
Its unique iridescence, known as adularescence, is caused by the presence of albite inclusions within the mineral structure. These inclusions scatter light, creating a mystical shimmering effect.
Rainbow Moonstone is commonly used in jewelry making, particularly in rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. Its captivating play of colors, ranging from blue, peach, pink, and even a faint hint of yellow, makes it a sought-after gemstone for both contemporary and bohemian-style jewelry designs.
Rainbow Moonstone has a hardness ranging from 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still requiring gentle care. It has a vitreous to pearly luster and a transparent to translucent appearance.
Rainbow Moonstone is known for its distinctive adularescent shimmer, which creates a soft glow when light interacts with the gemstone. Additionally, it possesses a trigonal crystal structure with a prismatic shape.
Rainbow Moonstone holds significant value in the gemstone market due to its unique adularescent play of colors. Its value is influenced by factors such as color intensity, clarity, and the presence of the desirable blue sheen.
Fine quality Rainbow Moonstone with a strong and vibrant play of colors commands a higher price. Its increasing popularity in recent years has also elevated its global value.
Rainbow Moonstone is a captivating gemstone cherished for its iridescent play of colors. With a rich history and cultural significance, it is widely used in jewelry-making.
Its ethereal beauty and limited availability contribute to its value in the global gemstone market. Whether worn as a statement piece or appreciated for its mystical allure, Rainbow Moonstone is truly a gemstone that enchants with its shifting colors.