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Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral that is known for its adularescence, or the play of light that occurs when the stone is moved. The adularescence is caused by the presence of small, flat inclusions of albite or orthoclase feldspar that are oriented parallel to the cleavage planes of the moonstone. The color of moonstone can vary from white to gray to peach to blue, and the adularescence can be blue, white, or rainbow.
Moonstone has been used in jewelry for centuries, and it is said to have a number of metaphysical properties, including the ability to enhance intuition and creativity. It is also said to be a calming stone that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Factors that Affect the Value of Moonstone
The value of moonstone is determined by a number of factors, including:
- Color: The most valuable moonstones are those that have a blue or rainbow adularescence. White and gray moonstones are less valuable, but they can still be quite beautiful.
- Clarity: Moonstones with few inclusions are more valuable than those with many inclusions. Inclusions can make the stone appear cloudy or milky.
- Cut: The cut of a moonstone can affect its value. Cabochon-cut moonstones are the most popular, but faceted moonstones can also be beautiful.
- Carat weight: The carat weight of a moonstone is the weight of the stone in carats. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. Larger moonstones are more valuable than smaller moonstones.
- Treatment: Some moonstones are treated to enhance their color or clarity. Treated moonstones are less valuable than untreated moonstones.
How Much is Moonstone Worth?
The price of moonstone can vary depending on the factors listed above. In general, a one-carat moonstone with a blue or rainbow adularescence can sell for anywhere from $100 to $500. White or gray moonstones can sell for anywhere from $20 to $100 per carat. Moonstones that are larger than one carat can sell for even more.
Here is a table that shows the average price of moonstone per carat, depending on the color and clarity of the stone:
| Color | Clarity | Price per Carat |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | VVS1 | $500 |
| Blue | VS1 | $400 |
| Blue | SI1 | $300 |
| Blue | I1 | $200 |
| White | VVS1 | $100 |
| White | VS1 | $80 |
| White | SI1 | $60 |
| White | I1 | $40 |
Uses of Moonstone
Moonstone is a beautiful and versatile stone that can be used in a variety of applications. It is most commonly used in jewelry, but it can also be used in decorative objects, such as sculptures and vases.
In recent years, moonstone has become increasingly popular in new applications, such as:
- Health and wellness: Moonstone is said to have a number of healing properties, and it is often used in meditation and other healing practices.
- Metaphysics: Moonstone is said to be a powerful metaphysical stone that can enhance intuition, creativity, and psychic abilities.
- Fashion: Moonstone is a popular choice for jewelry designers, and it can be used to create a variety of beautiful and unique pieces.
Strategies for Buying Moonstone
If you are interested in buying moonstone, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you get the best possible value for your money.
- Do your research: Before you buy moonstone, it is important to do your research and learn about the different factors that affect the value of the stone. This will help you to make an informed decision about which moonstone is right for you.
- Shop around: Once you have done your research, it is important to shop around and compare prices from different vendors. This will help you to find the best possible deal on moonstone.
- Consider buying online: Buying moonstone online can be a great way to save money. However, it is important to make sure that you are buying from a reputable vendor.
- Get a certificate of authenticity: If you are buying a large or expensive moonstone, it is important to get a certificate of authenticity from a qualified gemologist. This will help you to ensure that the stone is genuine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When buying moonstone, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid.
- Buying a treated stone: Treated moonstones are less valuable than untreated moonstones. If you are buying a moonstone, make sure to ask the vendor if it has been treated.
- Buying a cloudy or milky stone: Moonstones with inclusions can appear cloudy or milky. These stones are less valuable than clear moonstones. If you are buying a moonstone, make sure to examine it carefully for inclusions.
- Buying a small stone: Moonstones that are larger than one carat are more valuable than smaller moonstones. If you are buying a moonstone, consider buying a stone that is at least one carat in size.
- Buying a poorly cut stone: The cut of a moonstone can affect its value. If you are buying a moonstone, make sure to choose a stone that has been well-cut.
Conclusion
Moonstone is a beautiful and versatile stone that can be used in a variety of applications. The value of moonstone depends on a number of factors, including the color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and treatment of the stone. By following the tips in this article, you can buy moonstone with confidence and get the best possible value for your money.
