Buyer's Guide
The strength and colour of moonstone's sheen, its body colour, and clarity are the most important value factors.
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Submit your gemstone through your local jeweller.
FIND A REPORT
Verify the information on your report matches what is archived in the GIA report database.
What to look for
Moonstone that’s colourless with blue sheen is most valuable but moonstone is available in green, peach, brown, and grey with blue, silver, white or rainbow adularescence.
Moonstone Clarity
Moonstone that is almost transparent and as free of inclusions as possible is generally preferred. A slight translucency helps to accentuate the adularescence.
Most moonstone is cut in the smooth domed shape called a cabochon to best show the adularescence. Faceted moonstone is becoming more popular.
Moonstone Carat Weight
Moonstone is available in a wide range of sizes, but fine material is rare in large sizes and its value increases as a result.
Moonstone Quality Factors: The Comprehensive Guide
Questions & Answers
Is rainbow moonstone really moonstone?
Rainbow moonstone is transparent labradorite, a closely related feldspar mineral with sheen in a variety of iridescent colours. Although it technically isn't moonstone, it’s similar enough that the trade has accepted it as a gem in its own right. Today, some people prefer it to traditional moonstone.
Is moonstone tough enough for rings?
Moonstone is less durable than gems like sapphire, diamond or amethyst. It is vulnerable to scratching and also chipping or cleaving if accidentally hit against a hard surface. Wearing moonstone rings isn’t recommended during sport or at the gym. However, with proper care and attention, many people wear moonstone rings for years without any issues.
Is faceted moonstone available?
In recent years, moonstone cut in traditional faceted shapes has been much more available. Generally, very transparent material is faceted. Rose-cut moonstone is currently popular, and milky material is generally fashioned that way.
Find out more
Moonstone: Questions & AnswersCaring for Your Moonstone
Keep your moonstone beautiful by following simple care and cleaning guidelines.
Durability
Moonstone has two cleavage directions, and cleavage can affect durability, so manufacturers usually set moonstone into pendants, earrings and pins rather than rings, which are more likely to receive knocks and bumps.
Care and Cleaning
Warm soapy water is always safe.
Treatment
Moonstone is rarely treated.
