Rainbow Moonstone
A variety of Labradorite
What is Rainbow Moonstone?
A variety of labradorite, rainbow Moonstone is generally a translucent stone that exhibits rainbow colors when seen in natural light. This stone has been used since ancient times — Romans and Greeks associated this stone with their lunar gods. Today, it's cut into beads and cabochons and used with jewelry.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.554-1.573
- Birefringence
- 0.007-0.011
- Pleochroism
- Red stones from the Congo - weak
- Green stones - distinct: greenish yellow to bluish green
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.012
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Rainbow Moonstone before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Rainbow Moonstone Localities Map
See where Rainbow Moonstone is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Rainbow Moonstone
[Na(90 70%)Ca(10 30%) Al, Si]AlSi2O8, Sodium Calcium Aluminum Silicate
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, blue, iridescent
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6 - 6.5
- Density
- 2.65 - 2.75 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Pearly, Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Triclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Na, Ca)Al1-2Si3-2O8
- Elements
- Na, Ca, Al, Si, O
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Rainbow Moonstone FAQs
How do I identify Rainbow Moonstone?
Rainbow Moonstone can be identified by its hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, White color, Pearly, Vitreous luster, Triclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Rainbow Moonstone?
Rainbow Moonstone typically appears in White, blue, iridescent. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Rainbow Moonstone?
Rainbow Moonstone has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the composition of rainbow moonstone of Rainbow Moonstone?
[Na(90 70%)Ca(10 30%) Al, Si]AlSi2O8, Sodium Calcium Aluminum Silicate