The moonstone gets its name from its blue or silvery-white shimmer, which is caused by its fine, layered structure. It is also known as adularia or selenite. The name “adularia” originates from its discovery site – Mount Adula in Switzerland.

In India, the moonstone is called “Chandrakant”, which translates to “moonlight.” It is considered the most sacred stone for followers of the Moon.

The history of the stone has been documented in various cultures and civilizations:

In ancient mythology, moonstones were believed to be solidified moon rays. People thought they were fragments of the Moon’s surface, messengers from the heavens.
In India, the stone was valued as a symbol of passion, luck, and love. It was believed to grant mystical abilities to foresee the future and control one’s destiny.
In Greece, the gemstone was considered a gift from the Hyperboreans. It was said to inspire revelations and grant the ability to perceive hidden truths.
In southern Mesopotamia, among the Chaldean people, moonstone crystals were used by priests during rituals. They held the stone under their tongues while chanting prayers and spells, believing that their words would become prophetic.

Moonstone is a variety of potassium feldspar known as orthoclase. Its chemical composition is KAISi₃O₈, a potassium aluminum silicate.

The primary deposit is located in India.

The mesmerizing glow of moonstones is a remarkable phenomenon in the world of gemstones, known as “adularescence”. This effect occurs due to the stone’s internal structure, which consists of thin lamellar layers. When light enters the stone, it is refracted and scattered, creating a one-of-a-kind shimmer that makes moonstone so unique and desirable.

Despite its beauty, moonstone has a relatively low hardness, making it susceptible to scratches and requiring careful handling during cutting and setting. If a moonstone loses its luster over time, it can be easily restored through re-polishing.

Moonstone is considered a talisman for creative individuals – writers, musicians, and artists. It enhances their talents, brings inspiration, and encourages creative expression.

The stone is believed to bring good luck and is highly valued as a gift for loved ones, as it awakens tender emotions and grants insight into the future. As a stone of love and harmony with the surrounding world, moonstone was cherished by many cultures even more than gold and was regarded as sacred.

Moonstone gains its greatest power during a full moon. Its mysterious glow inspires dreaminess, gentleness, and tenderness while easing tension, dispelling anger, and reducing excessive self-confidence.