Moonstone Buyers Guide: Identifying Different Qualities - Is It Good For An Engagement Ring?

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For this blog post, I interviewed Lauriane Laugney a certified gemologist.

Is Moonstone Good for Engagement Rings?

Yes, it absolutely is! Moonstone engagement rings are a beautiful and unique alternative to the classic diamond. With its soft, ethereal glow and mystical allure, moonstone appeals to those looking for something more personal and meaningful.

Moonstone has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, which means it is a softer gemstone compared to diamonds (hardness of 10) or sapphires (9). While it does require a bit more care and mindful wear, it remains a wonderful choice for those who value uniqueness and symbolism—especially at a more accessible price point.

Moonstone can be cut as a smooth cabochon or faceted like a diamond for added sparkle (see example to the right).

How to Clean and Care for Your Moonstone Ring and Jewelry

As mentioned above, moonstone is a slightly softer gemstone, rating a 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. Because of this, it's important to take extra care to preserve its beauty and prevent scratches or chips. Be sure to remove your moonstone ring during activities like gardening, working out, or anything involving heavy impact or abrasion.

How to Clean Moonstone Jewelry:

To safely clean your moonstone ring or jewelry, follow these simple steps:

1. Use lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap

2. Gently scrub using a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt, lotion, or residue

3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth

Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone or its setting over time.

Identifying the Different Types of Moonstone

There are several types of moonstone, each with its own unique appearance and value. Moonstones also come in a range of colors, from colorless to peach and even brown tones. Here's a breakdown of the most common varieties in the moonstone family:

1. Colorless Moonstone

As the name suggests, this type is fully transparent and typically displays a soft blue sheen or glow, known as adularescence. This is one of the most desirable moonstone types due to its clarity and light play.

2. Rainbow Moonstone

Technically a variety of labradorite, rainbow moonstone is prized for its striking flashes of color—blue, purple, and even green. It’s considered the highest quality moonstone available on the market and is highly sought after for custom jewelry.

3. True White Moonstone

Also known as milky moonstone, this type has a more opaque, white appearance. Its cloudy look comes from natural inclusions inside the stone, which typically makes it more affordable and slightly lower in quality than the transparent varieties.

4. Colored Moonstones

These include peach, honey, brownish-orange, and peppered moonstones. While beautiful and unique, they are less commonly seen in the mainstream jewelry market, which tends to favor the more traditional colorless and rainbow moonstone types.

How to Tell if Your Moonstone Is Real

Moonstones come in three main forms: transparent, translucent, and opaque. Among them, translucent moonstones are the most popular due to their beautiful sheen and lower level of inclusions, giving them a more refined, glowing appearance.

However, with increased demand comes imitation. So how can you tell if your moonstone is genuine?

1. Look for Inclusions

All natural moonstones will have at least minor inclusions. These may appear as:

• Faint milkiness or cloudiness

• Tiny cracks or internal lines

• Small “peppered” specks

These natural imperfections are normal in both precious and semi-precious gemstones and are a good indicator that your stone is authentic.

2. Watch for Unrealistic Perfection

If your moonstone appears flawless—completely clear with an overly intense blue or rainbow sheen—and comes at a very low price, it could be synthetic or glass. Natural moonstones have a subtle glow, not an overwhelming flash.

 

What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Moonstone?

Moonstone is deeply connected to feminine energy, inner harmony, and emotional balance. Often referred to as the “stone of new beginnings,” moonstone is believed to promote intuition, calmness, and spiritual growth.

In various cultures, moonstone is thought to have mystical powers—some even believe it can grant wishes or bring good fortune when worn or placed under moonlight. It’s also commonly used in meditation and healing practices for its soothing and stabilizing effects.

Thanks for reading, if you have any questions or comments or if you would like to inquire about our custom jewelry design services, send us an email at info@fineandflux.com 

 

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