Moonstone is a variety of the feldspar-group mineral orthoclase. During formation, orthoclase and albite separate into alternating layers. When light falls between these thin layers it is scattered producing the phenomenon called adularescence. In Vedic Astrology, It is worn for Moon. It soothes emotional instability and stress, and stabilizes the emotions, providing calmness.
- Group: Orthoclase (Feldspar)
- Refractive index: 1.518-1.526
- Birefringence: 0.005-0.008
- Specific gravity: 2.58/ ±0.03
- Crystal system: Monoclinic
- Hardness: 6-6.50
- Inclusions: Adularescence
- Origin: Sri Lanka and Southern India