Gemstone engagement rings have been trending in the wedding world for years. From emerald to ruby, there are so many unique stones to choose from.
Moonstone may be a lesser known gem, but that doesn’t make it any less special. This unique stone has a stunning iridescent finish perfect for a boho bride.
Moonstone is made up of two minerals: orthoclase and albite. Both of these minerals fall under the feldspar family, which makes up more than half of the Earth’s rocky crust. During formation, the minerals first intermingle then separate into alternating layers.
When light falls between the various layers of this stone, it creates a unique phenomenon called adularescence where the light appears to billow across the gem and make it appear as if it is glowing.
Moonstone has been revered by many cultures over the years. The ancient Romans believed it was formed by the moonbeams and thus associated the stone with lunar deities. Hindu mythology also suggests the stone is made of solidified moonbeams. In Indian culture, the stone is a sacred stone and is said to bring special dreams.
Adularescent moonstone was once named’ adularia’, named after Adular, a city in Switzerland where the first yield of high-quality moonstone was discovered.
The stone varies in colours from completely colourless to yellow to blue to pink, meaning any bride can find a shade she likes. Its value comes in its size. The thinner, the more valuable as more light is scattered off the stone, creating its characteristic mesmerising iridescence. Transparent blue moonstones are the rarest form.
As with diamonds, moonstone is also judged on the four C’s: cut, clarity, colour and carat.
Moonstone is said to bring good luck. Some even believe if you hold a moonstone in your mouth during a full moon, you’ll see the future.
The stone ranks a 6.0 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it durable enough for everyday wear. It complements a range of cuts and metals, making it a jack of all trades in the gem world. However the ring is designed, your moonstone will shine bright.
Feature image: Unsplash
