June Birthstone: Can the Legendary Moonstone Really Predict the Future? Tiffany and Dior Have Used It Too!
Moonstone, the enchanting June birthstone, has inspired myths, art, and high jewelry design for centuries. Known for its ethereal blue glow, it carries a legacy that blends legend with science. This article explores moonstone’s origins, symbolism, optical magic, and value—from ancient traditions to modern creations by Tiffany and Dior.
Introduction to June Birthstone Moonstone and Its Symbolism
Moonstone (also called Adularia) belongs to the feldspar family of minerals. Its name comes from the soft, bluish-white glow it displays when viewed at certain angles—an optical effect known as adularescence.
In the Western birthstone tradition, moonstone is considered an alternative birthstone for June, alongside pearls.
Throughout history and across cultures, people have attributed magical properties to moonstone. Ancient Greek, Roman, and Indian traditions all describe it as “solidified moonlight” with powers to awaken intuition, foresee the future, protect lovers, and bring good fortune.
Moonstone is far from obscure in jewelry history. During the Art Nouveau era, jewelers such as René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany used moonstone extensively in their creations. Even the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has noted its popularity in turn-of-the-century artistic jewelry.
June Birthstone Moonstone Varieties and Mineralogical Basics
Two Types of “Moonstone”
In today’s jewelry trade, the term moonstone can refer to several feldspar varieties:
- Orthoclase-Albite (Adularia-type)
This is the traditional moonstone. Its layered internal structure causes light to scatter and interfere, creating the signature soft glow. - Labradorite-derived “Rainbow Moonstone”
Some vendors call certain labradorites rainbow moonstone. These stones show colorful, iridescent flashes rather than a single bluish glow. Strictly speaking, labradorite and orthoclase are distinct minerals, but both are marketed under the moonstone umbrella.
In everyday use, moonstone usually refers to the orthoclase variety.
How Does the Glow Work? Optical Mechanism
Moonstone’s adularescence arises from alternating micro-layers of feldspar (orthoclase and albite) within the crystal. When these layers are about the same thickness as visible light wavelengths, light entering the stone interferes and scatters, producing the soft blue-white sheen.
If the layers are uneven or too thick, the glow may appear grayish or faint.
Natural inclusions such as needle-like structures, fractures, or cleavage lines can also affect the purity of the glow. Interestingly, some inclusions add unique depth and texture, which designers sometimes value. Choosing a stone always involves balancing transparency, clarity, and light effect.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
Moonstone ranks 6.0–6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone that requires care in daily wear.
It has two cleavage planes, meaning it can split under sharp impact or poor setting. It is also sensitive to heat shock, ultrasonic cleaning, and steam. The safest way to care for moonstone is with lukewarm water and a soft cloth.
June Birthstone Moonstone Origins, Quality, and Market Value
Main Sources
Moonstone is found in many locations, but fine specimens are rare. Notable sources include:
- Sri Lanka – Historically famous for high-quality blue moonstones, though supplies are now dwindling.
- India – A major modern supplier, producing large quantities of milky-white stones with softer glow. Colored moonstones (greenish or peachy tones) are also common.
- Madagascar, Myanmar, Tanzania, and the U.S. – Additional deposits with varying quality.
Although production is widespread, high-grade stones with strong blue sheen, high clarity, and large size remain scarce, driving premium prices.
June Birthstone Moonstone Quality and How to Choose the Right Stone
Moonstone Quality
In Western markets, gemologists and jewelers evaluate Moonstone Jewelry, the June Birthstone, based on several key factors. The following table summarizes the most important grading criteria:
Moonstone Quality Factors
| Factor | Description | Requirement / Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Adularescence / Blue Sheen Intensity | The ideal is a clear, concentrated, bright “electric blue” or cool white glow. | Sheen should cover the entire surface and remain visible from multiple angles. |
| Transparency | The more transparent the better, minimizing cloudiness, milkiness, or disruptive inclusions. | High-grade stones are often described as “glass-body” or “transparent-body” moonstones. |
| Body Color | Should be subtle and clean, avoiding yellow, brown, or greenish tints. | Colorless to pale white body is most desirable. |
| Clarity / Inclusions | Stones should avoid large cracks or inclusions that interfere with sheen. | Minor needle-like inclusions are acceptable, but they must not disturb the light effect. |
| Cut / Shape / Orientation | Cabochon cutting is typically used to maximize the glow; the sheen should appear near the top dome. | Cut quality is crucial for displaying adularescence effectively. |
| Carat Weight | Larger fine stones are rare and command higher prices. | 2–5 ct is common for fine jewelry; stones above 10 ct with strong glow are exceptionally scarce. |
It’s important to remember that perfect transparency and strong adularescence often conflict in moonstone. Many of the finest specimens still show slight inclusions or internal features, which can add unique character without diminishing their value.
How to Choose the Right Stone
Not all Moonstone Jewelry, the June Birthstone, is created equal. Many stones you encounter appear grayish-white with little to no blue sheen. When selecting a gemstone, pay attention to the following points:
- Look for a visible blue glow.
- The most captivating moonstones have a soft to vivid blue shimmer that shifts with movement. Avoid stones that appear dull or overly milky.
- Check transparency.
- While full glass-like transparency is rare, a stone that lets some light through will enhance the shimmer and overall beauty.
- Embrace minor inclusions.
- Tiny internal features or needle-like inclusions can add character and a natural, ethereal glow—don’t reject a stone just for these.
- Observe from multiple angles.
- The shimmer often looks different from the top versus the bottom of the cabochon; rotate the stone to see its full effect.
- Choose the right shape and cut.
- Dome-shaped cabochons or drop shapes usually show the adularescence best. Avoid cuts that flatten the glow.
By following these simple tips, you’ll find a moonstone that not only looks beautiful but also carries that magical charm everyone loves.
Is Moonstone Valuable?
The answer depends on context:
- Everyday jewelry – Because moonstone is relatively abundant, it is often used in affordable to mid-range jewelry, such as pendants, earrings, and rings.
- Fine jewelry and collectibles – Exceptional moonstones with vivid blue sheen, great clarity, and large size can be highly valuable, prized by collectors and investors.
Overall, moonstone remains classified as a semi-precious gemstone, not on the same tier as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, or jadeite. Yet in its finest form, moonstone can command significant premiums.
In short: ordinary moonstones are inexpensive, but top-quality specimens are treasured in the jewelry world.
Myths, Culture, and Design Applications
Legends and Mysticism
Moonstone is surrounded by captivating folklore:
- Ancient myths claimed that holding a moonstone in the mouth during a full moon allowed one to see the future.
- In Hindu tradition, moonstone embodied the light of the moon, said to protect travelers at night, guide dreams, and enhance feminine energy.
- In Europe’s Middle Ages and the Victorian era, it was regarded as a love charm and mystical talisman.
Of course, modern gemology provides no scientific evidence for these mystical powers—they remain part of cultural storytelling and jewelry marketing.
Moonstone in Jewelry Design
During the Art Nouveau movement, moonstone became a favored gem for jewelers such as Lalique and Tiffany’s workshops, featured in ornate pendants and brooches.
In contemporary times, luxury brands like Pomellato have incorporated moonstone into collections such as the Pom Pom series, highlighting its dreamy, romantic glow.
While there’s little evidence that Dior used moonstone in major collections, it occasionally appears in couture or concept pieces as a distinctive design accent.
✨ Conclusion & Call to Action
Moonstone Jewelry, the June Birthstone, captivates with more than just its glow; it carries stories and emotions. Whether you treasure its mystical lore or admire its subtle elegance, it reminds you that true beauty often lies in the details.
At Peonyjewels, we share this belief. Our handmade vintage earrings are designed with the same spirit—where artistry meets meaning, and every piece becomes a keepsake.
Discover jewelry that speaks to your soul and explore our latest collection today at Peonyjewels.
