Moonstones are mesmerizing gemstones of the feldspar mineral group, that embody the ethereal glow of moonlight. Their captivating pearly or opaline luster is reminiscent of the celestial orb they are named after. These enchanting gemstones come in a range of shades, from rainbow to blue, white, peach, pink, yellow, and silver. Although not considered as valuable as other semi-precious stones such as cat’s eyes, tourmaline, or opal, moonstones have held significance in astrology throughout history.
The blue variety of moonstones, or simply blue moonstone, is a gem unlike any other – usually cut en cabochon instead of being faceted. With its pearly iridescence, blue sheen, and uncanny ability to invoke the moon's light, this striking stone has been treasured for centuries for its ethereal beauty and profound symbolism.
Steeped in mythology and lore, moonstone jewellery is believed to connect the wearer to the lunar energies of intuition, calm, and new beginnings. Modern practitioners continue to acknowledge this gem's spiritual power and astrological significance. Did you know moonstones can also boost self-esteem, strengthen relationships, and renew vitality? Read on to discover the varied astrological and mystical benefits of this lustrous lunar gem.
Composition of Blue Moonstones
Unlike other gemstones such as sapphires, moonstone is a variety of feldspar composed of sodium potassium aluminium silicate, and exhibit a diverse visual spectrum, encompassing translucency to opacity and showcasing a color palette that spans from colorless to white. In this exploration, our focus turns to Blue Moonstone, which is generally a cabochon gemstone as opposed to being faceted.
What distinguishes this June birthstone is its captivating blue sheen, a result of a phenomenon known as adularescence or schiller. Adularescence is a play of light caused by reflections within layers of minerals in the stone. This unique property imparts a lunar-like glow to the blue moonstone, creating an enchanting radiance seemingly emanating from the core of the stone
A pear-shaped cabochon Blue Moonstone
Blue Moonstones in Astrology
1. Historical Context
With a rich history spanning millennia, blue moonstones have held significant value in ancient civilizations, including Greece, Rome, India, China, and other parts of Asia. While these cultures shared a lunar association with the stone, their interpretations and beliefs varied.
In Roman culture, the significance was tied to their moon goddess, Diana. They believed that her essence resided within the stone, and those who possessed it could gain wisdom, foresight, and even the gift of prophecy. Asian cultures, on the other hand, held the belief that moonstones would wash ashore every 21 years, providing additional strength during winter months and serving as a protective talisman.
Blue Moonstones in Astrology
2. Birthstone Month
The gemstone holds the concealed truths of those born in June. Designated as June's 3rd birthstone alongside pearl and alexandrite, moonstone earned its name from the Roman natural historian Pliny. He noted that the alluring shimmer of the moonstone seemed to change by the moon's phases, adding an extra layer of mystique to this gem associated with individuals born in June. The enchanting play of light within the moonstone aligns symbolically with the ever-changing phases of the moon, creating a connection that adds to the gem's allure and significance for those with June birthdays.
3. Planetary Association
In astrology, each zodiac sign is associated with a ruling planet, and these planets are believed to influence the characteristics and energies of the signs. Similarly, crystals are associated with certain planets or celestial bodies based on their metaphysical properties. Moonstone is often linked to the Moon, the celestial body governing intuition and emotion.
4. Zodiac Signs
Moonstone is connected to the zodiac signs Cancer, Libra, and Scorpio. For Cancerians, this gemstone proves beneficial by promoting emotional balance and intuition, aligning well with the characteristics often attributed to this sign. Libra individuals can find support in the moonstone, as it aids in achieving harmony within relationships, fostering peace, and encouraging diplomatic interactions. Scorpios, on the other hand, benefit from the moonstone's ability to enhance their natural intensity and passion, providing a simultaneously calming effect on their emotions.
Astrological Benefits of Wearing a Blue Moonstone
Astrological Benefits of Wearing a Blue Moonstone
Wearing moonstone not only confers numerous astrological benefits but also adds a sense of sophistication and charm when incorporated into jewelry items such as rings, pendants, and bracelets. In general, wearing a moonstone is known to bring about the following astrological benefits to its wearer:
- Positivity Through Thought: Aligned with the water element, the moonstone absorbs energies that channel a soothing aura into our surroundings. This infusion of calming energies fosters serenity in nature and cultivates a mindset inclined towards perceiving things in a positive light.
- Physical Well-Being: Ancient scripts attribute medicinal properties to moonstones, utilizing them for treating ailments such as digestive issues, menstrual cramps, headaches, and inflammation. Contemporary research suggests potential benefits for reproductive system-related issues like infertility, impotence, and menstrual irregularities. Additionally, it is believed to alleviate allergy and asthma symptoms.
- Mental & Emotional Well-Being: Revered for its calming effects on the mind and emotions, moonstone is said to mitigate stress, anxiety, and foster inner peace. Ancients believed in its ability to enhance clarity of thought, intuition, and creativity. In modern contexts, research indicates its potential effectiveness in addressing depression, mood swings, and emotional imbalances.
- Spiritual Healing: Moonstone is linked to various spiritual and healing properties. Ancient civilizations held the belief that it could balance the chakras and facilitate spiritual growth. Furthermore, it is considered a potent tool for meditation and spiritual healing. In contemporary settings, individuals often rely on the gemstone for spiritual journeys, the enhancement of psychic abilities, and communication with the spiritual realm.
- Symbol of Femininity: Moonstone positively influences women's hormonal balance. Recognized as a feminine stone, it enhances hormonal equilibrium and energy with a focus on yin. This birthstone is believed to regulate menstrual disorders and ease childbirth pain.
Wearing Guidelines
To maximize the astrological benefits of a natural moonstone, it's essential to consider certain wearing guidelines:
- Metal Choice: For making the most of its metaphysical properties, it is advisable to wear your blue moonstone in a silver ring. However, it is crucial to seek guidance from expert astrologers to receive personalized recommendations regarding the proper way to wear the moonstone.
- Origins: Throughout history, the most exquisite blue moonstones, distinguished by their colorless, transparent, and intense blue sheen, have been sourced from Myanmar. A separate study highlights that the premier moonstone deposits are also found in Sri Lanka (Ceylon). Other noteworthy locations for acquiring high-quality moonstones include Australia, Finland, India, Austria, New Mexico, the United States, Madagascar, Norway, Virginia, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, and Tanzania.
- Timing Considerations: On a Monday, it is often suggested to wear a moonstone ring set in silver during the morning hours, specifically between 5:00 am and 7:00 am. Additionally, choosing the Shukla Paksha, the waxing phase of the moon is recommended for consistent and positive benefits according to certain beliefs.
- Finger Placement: The ideal finger to wear moonstone is the little finger of the right hand, associated with Mercury, despite the mount of the moon resting just below this finger. Alternatively, wearing it on the ring finger of the right hand is also believed to yield positive effects.
- Chanting: The beej mantra associated with the Moon is 'Om Som Somaya Namah'. Reciting this mantra with sincerity and wearing your moonstone with trust and belief can be a part of your spiritual practice.
- Carat Weight: It's suggested that the ideal weight for a moonstone intended for personal use ranges between 8 to 12 carats, however, this may vary depending on various factors. It is recommended to visit an astrologer to determine an accurate carat weight.
- Lab Certificates: Certifications from recognized gemological institutes like GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI (International Gemological Institute), or AGS (American Gem Society) ensure authenticity and quality.
Caring for Your Moonstone
To ensure the longevity and luster of your moonstone, consider the following care tips:
- Cleaning: Rinse your moonstone under cool running water to remove dirt, preserving its appearance and energy flow. Alternatively, use a saltwater solution to cleanse and purify, but be cautious as some moonstones may be damaged by saltwater.
- Recharging Ritual: To boost the energy of your moonstone, a common practice is to expose it to direct sunlight or moonlight, which is an easy method. Simply place the stone in a spot where it can receive direct sunlight or moonlight for a few hours, either by leaving it outside or putting it on a windowsill with optimal exposure. The stone absorbs energy from the sun or moon during this exposure, recharging its natural energy and improving its healing qualities. Once it has been exposed for several hours, take it out of the sunlight or moonlight, and it should feel revitalized and refreshed.
- Storage: Keep it separate from other gemstones to prevent scratches or abrasions. Wrap it in a soft cloth or store it in a fabric-lined box.
- Periodic Inspection: Periodically inspect your moonstone jewelry for loose settings or signs of wear. If you notice any issues, have them promptly addressed by a professional jeweler.
Conclusive Reflections
As the moon influences the tides, the blue moonstones also may influence your inner landscape. With patience and an open spirit, you may find their pale glow lifting your awareness and guiding you toward meaningful insights. Whether used simply as beautiful jewellery in rings or bracelets, or as a tool for self-reflection, these stones tied to our night sky can deepen your connection to forces larger than what you see with your eyes alone.
If you're looking to buy moonstone online, we invite you to explore Precious Earth's exquisite blue moonstone collection. Set in high-quality silver or gold, our moonstone jewellery such as bracelets, pendants or rings, is expertly cut and polished to bring out the gemstone's mystical iridescence. You can also explore a variety of options beyond moonstones, such as garnets, sapphires, ruby, opal, and more. Browse our selection today and experience the transformative power of moonstone for yourself.
