Moonstone is a beautiful gemstone that has captivated people for centuries with its dazzling play of light. There are two main varieties of moonstone: orthoclase and albite. Understanding the differences between these two types of moonstone can help you select the ideal stone for your needs.
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone belongs to the mineral family of feldspars. Feldspars make up around 60% of the Earth’s crust, making them the most common group of minerals. The name “moonstone” comes from the gem’s lunar-like sheen.
When light enters moonstone, it refracts in tiny layers inside the stone. As the light exits, it scatters and creates an ethereal glow. This optical phenomenon is called adularescence. The sheen can range from milky white to shimmering blue.
Moonstone deposits have been found all around the world. Major sources include Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania. Deposits have also been found in Brazil, Mexico, the United States, and Australia.
Orthoclase Moonstone
Orthoclase moonstone is composed of potassium feldspar. It has a chemical formula of KAlSi3O8. The “orthoclase” name comes from the Greek words for “straight” and “breaking.” It refers to the stone’s twin cleavage planes that meet at right angles.
Orthoclase moonstone tends to be transparent to translucent. It commonly occurs in shades of peach, pink, yellow, green, and brown. The sheen is typically blue or rainbow-colored. Orthoclase moonstone is usually cut into cabochons to maximize the adularescent effect.
This variety of moonstone is sometimes referred to as “Madagascar moonstone.” Many of the finest orthoclase moonstones have historically come from Madagascar, although the stone is also mined in India, Tanzania, Brazil, and Myanmar.
Properties of Orthoclase Moonstone
- Chemical formula: KAlSi3O8
- Crystal system: Monoclinic
- Hardness: 6 – 6.5 on the Mohs scale
- Specific gravity: 2.56 – 2.63
- Refractive index: 1.522 – 1.526
- Dispersion: 0.028
Meaning of Orthoclase Moonstone
In crystal healing traditions, orthoclase moonstone is believed to have calming and soothing energies. It is thought to promote emotional balance and stability. The stone is associated with new beginnings and release from emotional burdens.
Some believe that moonstone enhances intuition and opens the mind to inner wisdom. It is considered a good stone for meditation or to place under your pillow at night.
Albite Moonstone
Albite moonstone is composed of sodium feldspar. It has a chemical composition of NaAlSi3O8. Albite gets its name from the Latin word “albus” meaning white – in reference to its typical color.
Pure albite is colorless and transparent. As inclusions and impurities increase, the stone can take on white, gray, yellow, orange, pink, and green hues. The sheen is often bright blue or green.
Compared to orthoclase moonstone, albite moonstone typically has a more vibrant adularescence. India is a leading source for quality albite moonstone.
Properties of Albite Moonstone
- Chemical formula: NaAlSi3O8
- Crystal system: Triclinic
- Hardness: 6 – 6.5 on the Mohs scale
- Specific gravity: 2.62 – 2.65
- Refractive index: 1.527 – 1.553
- Dispersion: 0.028
Meaning of Albite Moonstone
Like orthoclase moonstone, albite moonstone is believed to stimulate intuition and enhance creativity. It is associated with feminine energies and is thought to foster compassion and receptivity.
Some believe that albite moonstone can help absorb negative energy and act as an emotional cleanser. It is considered a stone of inner growth and strength.
Key Differences Between Orthoclase and Albite Moonstone
While orthoclase and albite moonstones share many similar traits, there are some key differences between the two varieties:
| Orthoclase Moonstone | Albite Moonstone |
|---|---|
| Potassium feldspar | Sodium feldspar |
| Monoclinic crystal structure | Triclinic crystal structure |
| Tends to be translucent | Tends to be more transparent |
| Colors typically muted | Colors more vivid |
| Sheen is blue or rainbow | Sheen often bright blue or green |
How to Tell Orthoclase and Albite Moonstone Apart
While beauty is subjective, most gemologists consider albite moonstone to display a more dynamic play of light compared to orthoclase moonstone. The vivid blue and green flashes tend to stand out more in albite.
Albite moonstone also tends to be more transparent, while orthoclase is translucent. Backlit, albite moonstone will appear clearer.
The most reliable way to distinguish orthoclase from albite moonstone is by conducting scientific testing. Laboratory reports from gemological institutes like GIA and AGL will specify the type of feldspar.
Under a jeweler’s loupe, experienced gemologists may also be able to identify telltale signs to determine the type of moonstone. However, for most buyers, visible differences will be subtle at best.
Which Moonstone is Better?
When it comes to beauty, there is no definitive “better” type of moonstone. Albite moonstone tends to display more vibrant colors and adularescence. Yet orthoclase has its own understated appeal.
In terms of rarity, albite moonstone is much less common than orthoclase. Less than 10% of moonstones are composed of albite. For collectors interested in exceptional stones, fine albite moonstones are in high demand.
For metaphysical purposes, practitioners do not consider one type of moonstone inherently better. Both are believed to hold similar energetic and spiritual properties. It often comes down to personal preference.
For jewelry, albite moonstone may be more suitable for pieces where the stone is a focal point. The dynamic colors can truly be shown off in pendants, rings, and earrings. Orthoclase moonstone may be ideal for more understated designs.
How to Care for Moonstone
Both orthoclase and albite moonstone require some special care. As relatively soft gemstones rating 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, moonstones are susceptible to scratching and chipping.
Avoid exposing moonstone jewelry to harsh chemicals, heat, and sudden impacts. When cleaning, use a soft cloth to gently wipe the stone. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided.
Take care when storing moonstone. Wrap pieces individually in soft cloth or place in separate compartments in a jewelry box. This protects the stones from scratching each other.
When wearing moonstone rings, remove them before physical activities like exercising, gardening, or cleaning. The activities could scratch the stone or cause impact damage to the fragile stone.
Where to Buy Moonstone
Genuine moonstone can be purchased from several reputable sources:
- Local jewelers – Many jewelry stores carry moonstone, particularly those specializing in precious and semiprecious gemstones. A qualified gemologist on staff can help identify the moonstone variety.
- Online dealers – There are many online retailers selling orthoclase and albite moonstone. Be sure to verify their return policies and credentials.
- Auction sites – You can find unique moonstone specimens and antique jewelry on sites like eBay. Ensure items have been verified and appraised.
- Gem shows – Annual gem and mineral shows are great places to see moonstones from around the world. You can buy directly from suppliers and miners.
- Direct from miners – Purchasing moonstone rough or cut directly from mines in India, Madagascar, and other sources can provide good value.
Whether buying online or in person, a trusted seller will provide documentation of any gemological testing performed on the moonstone. This helps ensure you are getting exactly what is described.
Moonstone Prices
Moonstone is affordable compared to many other gems. Prices vary depending on the stone’s size, quality, type, and cut. Expect to pay:
- Orthoclase moonstone rough – $1 to $20 per carat
- Albite moonstone rough – $5 to $100 per carat
- Small moonstone cabochons – $5 to $20 per carat
- Moonstone jewelry – Rings for $50 to $200, pendants for $75 to $300
- Exceptional collector-grade moonstone – Over $1,000 per carat
Albite moonstone commands significantly higher prices per carat compared to common orthoclase moonstone. But larger sizes and quality color can make even orthoclase valuable.
Moonstone in Jewelry
Thanks to its mesmerizing glow, moonstone is a favorite gem material for jewelry. Its soft blue sheen nicely complements silver, platinum, white gold, and yellow gold.
Moonstone is especially popular for engagement rings and other romantic pieces. The Romans believed moonstone was born from solidified rays of the moon. It is considered a stone of true love.
Moonstone makes one-of-a-kind pendants, earrings, and rings. It is also incorporated into bracelets, necklaces, and brooches. Vintage Art Nouveau jewelry is renowned for its intricate moonstone designs.
Since moonstone rates low on the Mohs scale, jewelry settings with protective prong or bezel mounts are recommended. Avoid rings with exposed, protruding moonstone that could crack or chip.
Popular Jewelry Designs
- Moonstone solitaire pendants – A single stunning moonstone in a minimalist pendant perfectly shows off its beauty.
- Moonstone engagement rings – Moonstone is the central feature of many Art Deco inspired engagement ring designs.
- Moonstone cocktail rings – Oversized statement rings allow large moonstones to take center stage.
- Moonstone earrings – Moonstone studs and drops make lightweight, comfortable earrings.
Other Uses for Moonstone
Beyond jewelry, moonstone has been used for ornamental carvings, statuary, and decorative bowls. The Romans admired moonstone vessels, believing they could detect poison by changing color.
In crystal healing, moonstone is popular raw or tumbled as pocket stones. Large albite moonstone geodes and clusters are valued in the metaphysical community.
Some believe orthoclase and albite moonstone help stimulate the crown chakra and third eye chakra. Meditating with moonstone is thought to enhance spiritual insight.
Final Thoughts
With two varieties to choose from, moonstone offers versatility as a jewelery gemstone and metaphysical aid. Although differences can be subtle, understanding orthoclase and albite moonstone helps find your perfect match.
Let the glow of moonstone fill you with its magical light. This luminous gem has dazzled for thousands of years – and will continue capturing the imagination for centuries to come.
