Steeped in ancient lore and mystery, moonstone is a mesmerizing variety of the feldspar mineral group celebrated for its ethereal, pearly luster. It is most famous for exhibiting a phenomenal optical effect known as adularescence—a soft, undulating glow that appears to float just beneath the stone’s surface as it catches the light, closely mimicking the shifting light of the moon. This captivating sheen is caused by the internal intergrowth of alternating microscopic layers of orthoclase and albite, which scatter light waves rather than letting them pass straight through. While traditional fine moonstones display a ghostly blue glow on a colorless background, the gem also occurs in soft shades of peach, gray, and green, as well as the highly popular “Rainbow Moonstone,” which flashes a vibrant spectrum of colors. Long revered as a sacred talisman for intuition, safe travel by night, and new beginnings, this delicate, poetic gemstone brings a uniquely dreamy and magical presence to custom jewelry designs.