Earrings – Moonstone

Moonstone is a feldspar variety. The gemstone is very popular for use in jewellery since ancient times. The name ‘moonstone’ comes from the dark blue shimmer that the stone possesses which reminds people of moonlight. Stones with this effect are called ‘Rainbow Moonstone’. The shimmer is caused by very thin layers in the stone that break up the light in such a way that it refracts blue light. The layers are often made up of alternating layers of Albite and Orthoclase. This effect is the same effect that causes blue eyes in humans, the blue of butterfly wings and the blue sky. There are other stones with that same effect, for example Labradorite. Clear stones and a vibrant dark blue shimmer are highly sought after. Another variety that can be found has a velvet-ish shimmer and a non-see-through interior. It is commonly referred to as just ‘Moonstone’. A pink and green variety with a matte tone to them are also commonly found.