The Moonstone

Moonstone has captivated the hearts of jewelry lovers for centuries. The stone's seemingly bland appearance is made spectacular with the presence of light and movement. The glowing sheen and soft color are luring.

Adularescence Moonstone is the optical phenomenon that causes the extraordinary glow on the surface of moonstone. The light moves across the stone much like moonlight would glide across a large body of calm water. This happens when light reflects off of the thin layers of different feldspar minerals within moonstone. The layers act as a diffuser, softening the light and allowing it to bounce around the stone.

Ancient cultures coveted moonstone and created origins for the stone as spectacular as the stone itself. Many believed the stone was created from moonbeams. Others strongly associated the stone's powers with the moon. The stone was especially prized during a full moon. Moonstone is thought to bring its wearer good fortune and feelings of love and affection.

Moonstone found its way into jewelry throughout history, but it wasn't until the early 1900s that the stone became an iconic and important focal point. In the years preceding the Art Nouveau Era, moonstone was often used as a small accent stone. Some man in the moon pieces existed, but these were rare and less common.

Artisans like René Lalique brought on a powerful change with the Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts Movement. Natural, mystical stones with unique properties were favored over traditional glitzy stones. The Art Nouveau period was short-lived and the Art Deco movement was soon to follow with a heavy emphasis on diamonds and precious gemstones. It wasn't until the early 60 that moonstone came back into fashion.


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