Silver Moonstone
Meaning and Properties
History
Moonstone as a general gemstone has been revered for thousands of years by cultures all over the world. According to Hindu legend, moonstone was formed by moonbeams. Ancient Rome had a similar thought process, believing the stone to be created from drops of moonlight. Moonstone was viewed as a sacred stone in India and was thought to bring good fortune. Today, moonstone is the official birthstone for June and associated with the Zodiac sign Pisces. Moonstone is typically colorless, but can occur in a range of colors, including this variety with a distinct silvery sheen.
Metaphysical Properties
Moonstone was once called the traveler's stone because it was believed to protect traders and merchants from perils at sea. On our "journey" through life, silver moonstone gives a sense of calm, assured strength. Moonstone was also valued as a stone for lovers since it was thought this gemstone could encourage passion. If a couple held moonstone, it was believed they could tell the future of their relationship.
Geological Properties
Moonstone is a common variety of orthoclase feldspar, which is a potassium aluminum silicate. Moonstone, including silver moonstone, is loved for its distinct sheen that can be seen under specific lighting conditions. This sheen is called adularescence and is caused by thin alternating layers in the structural pattern of moonstone. Light is refracted and scattered upon entering the gemstone, which causes a unique play of light and color. This mysterious-looking shimmer makes moonstone look like it is glowing from within.
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Proper Care of Silver Moonstone
With its beautiful silvery sheen, moonstone appears to be somewhat delicate. Moonstone isn't known for its toughness with an average Mohs hardness of 6 to 6-1/2. For this reason, it's recommended to remove moonstone jewelry before participating in activities that cause perspiration or could result in scratches to the surface such as sports and gardening. To clean silver moonstone, it's best to use mild soap and water. Gently rinse, polish and dry silver moonstone with an untreated cloth. It's not a good idea to use steaming, ultrasonic machines or boiling techniques to clean moonstone. Remove moonstone jewelry before house cleaning with any type of harsh cleaners or chemicals. Store silver moonstone jewelry in a soft cloth or at least away from other jewelry pieces to prevent harder stones or metal settings from marring the surface of your stone.
To learn more about moonstone and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Silver Moonstone
Nothing says subtle sophistication like grey or silver. In silver moonstone, enjoy three tantalizing impressions simultaneously: silvery-grey translucent stone with a sheen that enhances a sense of sophistication. Try blending silver moonstone with black onyx, garnet and sterling silver for a necklace or bracelet that is both sophisticated and scintillating. This light-colored stone is a favorite to use alongside silver-colored metals, including antiqued varieties.
View more resources featuring silver moonstone, including Design Ideas, Videos, Tutorials and more!
Shop for Silver Moonstone
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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