Rainbow moonstone might be called a "moonstone," but it's actually a transparent form of labradorite. Labradorite and moonstone are both feldspars with similar chemical makeups and crystal structures, but which react to light differently. It can be distinguished from true moonstone by its greater transparency and play of colour, which are qualities of labradorite. This captivating effect is created by layers of internally repeating feldspar that scatter light, producing a mystical blue glow that resembles moonbeams. While high-quality rainbow moonstone is highly transparent, the roughs and tumbles commonly sold are usually less so, and the stone colour of rainbow moonstone is typically a somewhat translucent white or grey. It is also sometimes called "Labradorite Moonstone."
This article originally appeared in our April 2023 edition of Witch, What? (under the article title "April's Moon & Bloom"), a newsletter for witches of all experience levels which you can pick up in person at our stores or receive for free with an online order. It includes information like that month's full moon, any Wheel of the Year holidays coming up, what is in bloom that month, and helpful articles like this one! These articles will not appear on our blog until the following month (or later), so if you want to get them right away, make sure to drop by our booth at the 400 Market, at our shelf at Little Shoppe Treasures in the Oshawa Markets, OR buy a digital copy through our online store!
