What causes the glow in moonstone?

The glow is called adularescence and it comes from the stone's internal structure. Moonstone is made of alternating thin layers of two different feldspars, and when light enters the stone it scatters between these layers and bounces back as that soft, floating sheen.

Can moonstone be worn every day?

Moonstone rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it softer than quartz, so it can scratch over time if worn in rings. It suits earrings, pendants and bracelets well for daily wear; ring wearers should be gentle and avoid knocks.

What is the difference between rainbow moonstone and white moonstone?

Rainbow moonstone is actually a variety of labradorite rather than true moonstone, though it is sold widely under that name. It shows multicoloured adularescence, often vivid blue and violet flashes, while white moonstone shows a softer, more classic blue-white glow.

What is moonstone?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

Moonstone is a variety of feldspar mineral, ranging from white and grey through peach, champagne and occasionally blue, and it is prized for adularescence, the soft billowy glow that seems to float just beneath the surface. That glow comes from light scattering between the stone's thin internal layers of different feldspar. The finest stones show a blue or white sheen over a transparent body. Moonstone is a birthstone for June alongside pearl and alexandrite, and it is associated with intuition and the cycles of the moon across many cultures.

Frequently asked questions

What causes the glow in moonstone?: The glow is called adularescence and it comes from the stone's internal structure. Moonstone is made of alternating thin layers of two different feldspars, and when light enters the stone it scatters between these layers and bounces back as that soft, floating sheen.
Can moonstone be worn every day?: Moonstone rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it softer than quartz, so it can scratch over time if worn in rings. It suits earrings, pendants and bracelets well for daily wear; ring wearers should be gentle and avoid knocks.
What is the difference between rainbow moonstone and white moonstone?: Rainbow moonstone is actually a variety of labradorite rather than true moonstone, though it is sold widely under that name. It shows multicoloured adularescence, often vivid blue and violet flashes, while white moonstone shows a softer, more classic blue-white glow.

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