Natural Moonstone in Pakistan

Three kinds to choose from

Blue-sheen moonstone

The most prized: a nearly transparent body with a vivid blue glow that moves as you turn it. Sri Lanka is the classic source.

White and peach moonstone

A milky white, cream or peach body with a softer, silvery sheen. Gentle, easy to wear and usually more affordable, these suit everyday jewellery.

Rainbow moonstone

A clear to white stone that flashes blue and sometimes other colours. Strictly speaking it is a variety of labradorite, but the trade name "rainbow moonstone" is used everywhere.

What makes one worth more

Sheen comes first: a strong, centred glow covering much of the stone, especially in blue, ranks highest. Transparency is next, since a clear body makes the glow look as if it floats. Then check for visible inclusions or cracks, and for a well-shaped, symmetrical cabochon. Size adds to price, particularly in fine blue stones. To compare listings, divide price by carat weight.

The gem in brief

Moonstone is built from thin, alternating layers of two feldspar minerals, and light scattering between those layers creates the glow. It rates about 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and has cleavage, so a knock can chip it. Sri Lanka and India are the main sources.

Moonstone or opalite?

The usual imitation is opalite, a man-made glass that glows bluish from every angle and often looks too perfect. Natural moonstone's sheen moves and sits in one area as you tilt it, and the stone usually has small natural inclusions such as tiny "centipede" cracks. Our authenticity page explains how we check every stone.

Traditional associations

Moonstone is a June birthstone. In South Asian astrology it is linked with the Moon (Chandra) and traditionally worn in silver on the little or ring finger for calm, intuition and emotional balance, sometimes in place of pearl. These are beliefs, not guaranteed effects; if astrology guides your choice, ask an astrologer about weight and finger.

Care

Clean it with lukewarm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes, and protect it from hard knocks.

Ordering moonstone from Authentic Gems

Each moonstone is checked and photographed to show its sheen honestly. Delivery is a flat Rs. 500 by insured, tracked courier: Karachi usually 1 to 2 working days, Lahore, Islamabad and other major cities 2 to 4, smaller towns up to about 7. Open the parcel and look at the stone before paying on Cash on Delivery, and return unused stones within 7 days.