Moonstone

Scientific Properties of Moonstone

Moonstone is a member of the feldspar mineral group, the same family that makes up over 60% of the Earth’s crust. What makes moonstone special is a unique optical occurrence called adularescence, which is a silvery or blue light that seems to float just under the stone’s surface. This glow, which is reminiscent of moonlight, is what gives the gem its name.

The moonstone consists of two different kinds of feldspar—not just any kinds, but two kinds that are beautifully layered together.

High-quality moonstones are becoming increasingly rare. The best specimens—historically mined in Sri Lanka and India—now often come from Myanmar, Tanzania, and Madagascar. Be wary of synthetic or imitation moonstones, and always check for authenticity.

Moonstone Colors

The majority of individuals envision moonstone as being white or pearly, yet its color spectrum is actually quite diverse. You will encounter blue moonstones, peach, gray, green, and even rainbow-colored. Each hue holds a distinct energy, which is why crystal healers find it versatile. Why moonstone, then? Here are a few reasons:

• Blue Moonstone: Frequently extracted from Sri Lanka, it’s cherished for its profound, incandescent radiance—perfect for spiritual enlightenment.
• Peach or Cream Moonstone: These warmer tones have a quality that feels emotionally comforting, often utilized for purposes of inner healing.
• Rainbow Moonstone: Despite what its name might suggest, it is actually a form of labradorite with multihued flashes. It is associated with creative expression and equilibrium.

Labradorite: Most commonly found in Canada, this feldspar mineral exhibits a spectacular display of colors. It is associated with intuition and the balancing of extremes.

Color may also vary somewhat based on the cutting style of the stone and the way light travels through it. One popular cut, especially for stones that exhibit adularescence, is the cabochon. This cutting style produces a smooth, rounded stone that, when placed upside down, will almost always result in a more brilliant and luminous piece of jewelry.

Moonstone Benefits for Spirituality

On a spiritual level, moonstone is frequently referred to as the “gem of new beginnings.” This is a stone that many crystal lovers—myself included—embrace during times of transformation and emotional development. It is believed to bolster not only emotional clarity, but also the feminine energies and inner strength that each of us possesses.

Moonstone is particularly notable for its association with the moon and the divine feminine. Some practitioners use it in balancing hormonal cycles; others claim it boosts intuitive abilities and empathy. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, we shouldn’t dismiss the calming effect many people report when wearing moonstone.

Could it be nothing more than a placebo effect? Maybe. But holding a softly glowing gem and feeling its glow during this time we call ‘‘now’’ is all about feeling more centered, more right with ourselves. And that alone makes it a worthwhile exercise.

Meditation with Moonstone

During meditation, moonstone can help establish a deeper link to the subconscious. A polished moonstone is my go-to companion for lying down and placing on either my heart chakra or third-eye chakra. It feels particularly good to receive its energy there, though you may also find it nourishing for the mind, body, and spirit in a more centralized or seated position where you’re hugging your knees.

You don’t need to practice meditation for a long time to benefit from it. Give this approach a shot:

Some people follow up their moonstone meditation with journaling. They do this because it helps them articulate the thoughts and insights that come to them during meditation. While their journaling is not necessarily a form of expression, it becomes a way to translate into written words that first take form in the mind.

Moonstone and Feng Shui

More than merely a lovely crystal, in Feng Shui, moonstone conveys something much more—a clear symbol of emotional balance, peace, and healing. This mineral is often affiliated with the Water element—the one most linked to flow, intuition, and purification. Moonstone is an excellent crystal to employ if you want to ameliorate a specific emotional issue. Placing it in your space will reduce roiling feelings and help restore harmony, especially in areas where the energy is not moving.

I once gifted a friend with a moonstone, and she’s the one who really brought my attention to the stone’s soothing properties. This friend of mine was (and still is) an insomniac. She kept the moonstone near her bed. Though I can’t say the stone worked like magic, my friend did say that the room felt much calmer, and I’m not sure if it was just my friend’s overactive brain at work, but I find that moonstone’s charm is indeed very subtle. Whether you believe in its charms or not, it seems like a great stone to keep around for a calming presence.

Moonstone and Zodiac

Not every gemstone has a close connection with all zodiac signs, but moonstone has a special resonance with Cancer, Pisces, and Scorpio. These water signs are intuitively and emotionally deep—qualities that moonstone enhances. The moon itself rules Cancer, providing a unique alignment with this gem. Many Cancers wear moonstone jewelry to stay emotionally grounded and to navigate their moods with greater ease.

However, this stone doesn’t only apply to water signs. Those seeking emotional insight or a tighter bond to their inner monologue can gain from this stone. For example, when it comes to astrology, the sign of Virgo is often associated with overthinking. Moonstone helps these individuals soften their mental rigidity and move toward a more heart-led decision-making process. This stone is almost like having a lunar guide on your wrist or in your pocket.

Place to Put Moonstone

If you are pondering where to store your moonstone, think about what you want it to help you with. If you have a specific intention, your moonstone will function more effectively. It will be a better moonstone for you if you have a reason for having it. So it’s not just about where to keep it; it’s about why you’re keeping it and what you’re moonstone-ing for.

When considering energy, the southwest area of your home is the best for fostering relationships. Placing moonstone in that corner could help with not only communication but also with penchants for empathy.

If you meditate or do tarot, consider having a moonstone nearby as you do those things. It’s about making this crystal part of your practice.

Guide to Cleanse Moonstone

Any crystal, such as moonstone, can soak up energy and, occasionally, can use a little refresh. Because moonstone is associated with the moon and the feminine divine, it is best to cleanse this crystal under the moon’s gentle, silvery light. For a truly moonlit crystal, place your moonstone on a windowsill or outside to bask in the full moon’s light overnight. Such an arrangement feels almost ceremonial, and in some cultures, it is. The secret to preserving the stone’s radiance is avoiding the kind of cleansing that subjects delicate moonstone—much like skin—to harsh solar rays.

There are various methods for cleaning moonstone. One method is to use smoke from sage or palo santo. Another way is to give the moonstone a sound bath using singing bowls. A more personal method involves holding the moonstone in both hands and placing it in a bowl of spring water. While doing this, the holder sets an intention to cleanse the stone of any stagnant energy. Cleansing is not just for the stone; it is also a moment of mindfulness for the holder.

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