The Enchanting History of Moonstone

The Enchanting History of Moonstone

One of my favourite gemstones, let's explore the history of moonstone! Known for its ethereal beauty and captivating shimmer, moonstone has enchanted people for centuries. Like many gemstones, moonstone's origins are entwined with legends and symbolism.

Ancient Origins

Moonstone, with its mysterious glow reminiscent of moonlight, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Named by the Roman naturalist Pliny, who believed that moonstone’s shimmery appearance changed with the phases of the moon.

Moonstone was highly regarded in ancient civilizations such as the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians. These cultures considered it a sacred gemstone and associated it with lunar deities, attributing mystical powers and protection to those who wore it.

A Stone of Legends

Moonstone has been steeped in legends and folklore throughout history. In ancient India, it was considered a sacred stone that brought good fortune and harmonious relationships.

Legend has it that moonstone is made of solidified moonbeams and possesses the power to bestow love, passion, and even the ability to foresee the future. In ancient Rome, it was believed to bring love, fertility, and good fortune.

Sterling silver moonstone necklace bracelet

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Moonstone holds deep symbolism and spiritual significance across different cultures. In India, it is believed to bring about emotional balance, calmness, and enhance intuition. The stone is associated with the divine feminine energy and is considered a symbol of fertility and love. In many ancient cultures, moonstone was regarded as a protective talisman, especially during travel at night.

Modern Revival

Moonstone experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The gemstone's enchanting iridescence and its ability to complement both vintage and contemporary designs made it a sought-after choice for jewellery during these eras.

 

Sterling silver moonstone earrings necklace

Contemporary Birthstone for June

June's third birthstone, moonstone is a modern choice for June birthdays. The unique play of colors, known as adularescence, sets moonstone apart from other gemstones. Its pale blue, green, and milky white hues come alive when exposed to light, creating a captivating display of shimmering iridescence.

 

Caring for Moonstone Jewellery

To preserve the longevity of your moonstone jewellery, it's important to handle it with care. Moonstone has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches. Avoid exposing your moonstone jewellery to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or high impacts. Gently clean your moonstone pieces with a soft cloth and mild soap, ensuring they dry completely before storing them in a safe place.

 

It's easy to see how moonstone has endured the test of time, transcending ancient legends to become a beloved gemstone in contemporary jewellery. From its ancient origins to its resurgence in popularity, moonstone continues to be an alluring gemstone for jewellery.

Be enchanted by this subtle and dreamy gemstone with a delicate pendant, a dainty bracelet or a graceful pair of moonstone earrings.

See all moonstone jewellery here.

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Honeydew Club is an independent jewellery business based in South Wales, U.K. Creating minimal sterling silver and gemstone jewellery, all handmade from ethically sourced materials.