Peach Moonstone
Orthoclase var. Moonstone (Adularia) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically occurs in massive crystalline form in gemstones, though crystals can be prismatic or tabular.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup); Potassium Feldspar group.
Chemical Formula
KAlSi3O8 (Potassium Aluminum Silicate) with trace iron providing the peach/tanned hue.
Formation Process
Igneous/Pegmatitic formation. As magma cools, orthoclase and albite separate into alternating layers (exsolution lamellae), creating the structure necessary for optical interference.
About This Crystal
An opaque to translucent peach-to-flesh-toned stone with a vitreous to pearly luster. It features a soft, internal glow and visible internal cleavage planes and fractures. This specimen is polished into a palm stone shape, showcasing tan, peach, and cream color zoning.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Peach, tan, salmon; Streak: White; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees (perfect); Fracture: Uneven to conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.59; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Generally inert to weak orange under LWUV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.518-1.526; Birefringence: 0.005-0.008; Notable for Adularescence (a billowy schiller or glow caused by light scattering between microscopic layers of feldspar).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar (primary source for peach varieties), Sri Lanka, India, and Myanmar. Forms typically in plutonic igneous rocks and pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.0 - 6.5. It is relatively hard but prone to breaking due to perfect cleavage. Toughness is poor to fair; it should be handled with care to avoid sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Store separately from harder stones like quartz or sapphire to prevent scratching. Sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Value is determined by the intensity of color, the strength of the adularescent glow, and the presence of fewer internal fractures. Usually affordable, ranging from $5 to $30 for palm stones of this size.
Special Characteristics
Displays adularescence, a soft diffused light that appears to move beneath the surface of the stone as it is rotated, caused by the interference of light at the boundaries of internal layers.
Lore & History
Historically, moonstone has been associated with lunar deities and used in Roman and Greek jewelry. In modern crystal healing lore, Peach Moonstone is traditionally associated with the Sacral and Heart chakras, believed to support emotional balance, soothe anxiety, and promote feminine energy.