What's That Rock?Moonstone
A feldspar with a floating, milky blue or white glow that moves as the stone is turned.
How to identify Moonstone
- Soft, floating glow (adularescence) that moves
- Often seen as a cabochon (smooth dome)
- Splits along two flat directions if struck
Often confused with
- Opal
- Chalcedony
- Glass with a coating
Real or fake?
- Glass 'moonstones' often show a blue flash inside that looks too regular
Is Moonstone valuable?
Moderate; strong blue sheen costs more.
Typical retail prices
Tumbled stone$3–10each
Cut gemstone$2–40per carat
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Sheen: a strong blue glow that moves across the stone (adularescence) in a transparent body is the top grade
- Rainbow moonstone and 'peach' or 'gray' varieties are cheaper than blue
- Cut: well-centered, clean cabochons cost more than random shapes
- Treatment and glass: coated and imitation glass are sold as moonstone
Uses
- Jewelry
Care
Can chip along cleavage. Avoid knocks.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026