Meaning of Moonstone

Moonstone represents the power of intuition and the mysteries of the unconscious mind. This ethereal stone allows us to access our natural connection with the universe. Just as moonlight illuminates a dark path, this stone sheds light on the journey ahead. Moonstone is a talisman of protection and guidance as we explore the unknown.

The luster of moonstone is said to grow and weaken throughout the lunar cycle, reaching the peak of its power during the full moon. This stone represents immortality and a deeper understanding of how our own existence is woven within the larger web of life, death, and the turning of the cosmic wheel. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, Moonstone reminds us that everything is part of a sacred cycle of change and renewal.

Definition of Moonstone

moon·stone (/ˈmo͞onˌstōn/)
noun: moonstone
plural noun: moonstones
definition: a pearly white semi precious stone, especially one consisting of alkali feldspar
origin: 15th century, moon + stone

We feel it’s worth including the current definition of this stone because the names and definition of stones change throughout the ages. Stone names have changed throughout the ages. Once upon a time, stones were broadly grouped based solely on color or appearance. For instance, a wide variety of stones throughout history have been referred to as “Topaz”, a name given to any stone with a yellowish flash or fire. In modern times, gemstones may be given different names to associate them with related stones or to increase their perceived value.

In the process of searching for the origin of any stone, we often unravel a much larger narrative about our natural relationship with the treasures of this physical world and how we choose to use them for metaphysical connection & understanding. It’s important to remember that manifesting your intention and connecting with your stone is more about you than it is about the material and origin of the stone itself. Although crystals and stones can be meaningful conduits of energy, it is your own wellspring of power that fuels any magical tool.

Moonstone is the Birthstone of June

Traditional moonstone is an alternative birthstone for the month of June. This gemstone seems to hold all the mysteries of the night sky within it’s ethereal glow. This moonlit stone is the Zodiac Birthstone of Gemini and Cancer. Additionally, Aquarius, Scorpio, Libra, and Pisces can all benefit from the properties of this gemstone.

Gemini personalities are spontaneous and playful. Those born under the sun sign of Gemini are driven by their insatiable curiosity. This sun sign tends to become bored easily and it is often said that the path to a Gemini’s heart is through their mind. Imagination, visionary thought, and otherworldly exploration are all attributes connected with Moonstone making it an ideal companion for Gemini’s next adventure.

Cancer personalities are highly intuitive and are ruled by the Moon. Comfort and stability are incredibly important to this sun sign and they seem to feel most at home in cozy, domestic spaces. During major life transitions, the moon offers a nurturing energy and can comfort Cancer in the rhythm of it’s predictable cycles. Moonstone can help redirect anxiety and negative energy when this sign begins to feel overwhelmed by life events. This stone reminds Cancer that this period of uncertainty and change is simply a part of a larger cycle that will come full circle. This too shall pass.

What are the healing properties of Moonstone?

Let’s explore the properties of Moonstone and how it can be used for well-being, healing and transformation. Crystals and gemstones are not recommended as a replacement for medical treatment. That being said, spiritual health is a vital component of a truly holistic approach to well-being. Proper energy alignment aids the body’s healing process and allows traditional medicine to work more effectively. The power of meditation to reduce stress and improve overall health is now widely recognized. Crystals and gemstones are meaningful tools for focusing your healing power of intention.

Physical Healing Properties of Moonstone

Moonstone is connected with the lunar cycle governing monthly flow. This gemstone can be used to help attune your biorhythmic clock and ease monthly pain and premenstrual symptoms. Hormonal balance, menopause, fertility, pregnancy and childbirth are also associated with Moonstone. Moonstone elixirs have also been used for sleep conditions like insomnia, nightmares and sleepwalking.

Mental and Emotional Healing Properties of Moonstone

Moonstone promotes mental and emotional harmony. The receptive energy of moonstone can assist in calming extreme emotion and soothing emotional triggers. Moonstone allows for reflection, balances masculine energy, and assists the wearer with passive receptivity. This gemstone crystal has been said to have the power to reunite lovers and strengthen their bond. Similarly, this stone can help you heal from internal discord and cultivate self-love and acceptance.

Moonstone Metaphysical Properties

Moonstone has historically been used as an effective stone for balance and clarity. The gentle guidance of the moon makes this crystal an ideal companion for shadow work. Allow yourself to break unconscious cycles and destructive life patterns by incorporating this gemstone into your daily ritual and meditation. Moonstone can help draw out distorted beliefs into the light where they can be understood and then released. The Metaphysical Properties of Moonstone can be used to amplify healing energy during Reiki sessions, which assists in all forms of spiritual transformation.

The journey of gemstones and crystals are a metaphor for transfiguration, their life cycle mirrors mankind’s spiritual evolution. Whether these stones travel through the darkness of space toward a distant star or slowly make their way from deep within the earth, we are reminded of our own call to ascension. Crystals and gemstones are a perfect companion on your spiritual path toward light, universal love, and a profound sense of connection to all that is.

Magical Properties of Moonstone

Let’s explore the magical qualities of this luminous stone. In the ancient world, from east to west, Moonstone has been connected to triune and lunar deities. These deities often represent a deeper understanding and sensitivity to the subtle magic that binds all things together. Use Moonstone in rituals that have to do with intuition and wisdom. The soft white hues of moonstone can be used to influence energy and connect you with the power of purification, clarity and animal magic.

Gemstones and crystals have long been considered ideal instruments for energy work and focused intention. Finding a stone that will compliment your work in a specific area is an integral part of manifesting the energy you intend to harness. The right gemstone or crystal can play an important role in amplifying and recalibrating the energy in your environment as well as the energy within.

It was once believed that wearing moonstone would allow a person to become invisible by permitting their spirit to leave the body and wander freely. This stone’s link to the spirit world can be used during death rituals as a tool of transfiguration. This crystal represents eternal life and freedom from the limitations of the physical world by honoring the divine cycle of the universe and releasing the spirit from the body.

Moonstone and The Chakras

Primary Chakras associated with this stone are the Soul Star Chakra and the Crown Chakra. The Soul Star Chakra is located above the crown and functions as a cosmic adaptor of sorts. This energy center transmutes divine energy into a form that is optimized for the well-being of the human psyche. The Soul Star chakra is connected to mysticism, shamanism, and the Akashic records. Moonstone raises the vibration of this chakra and allows you to connect to a sense of divine order within your own life.

The Crown Chakra is also associated with the monoclinic crystal we call Moonstone . The Sanskrit name for the crown is Sahasrara , meaning “thousand-petaled”. The divine petals of this chakra unfold as we establish a more intimate relationship with the universe. The crown chakra transcends the material world and connects us with universal consciousness. This chakra allows you to connect to your Soul Star chakra and the true nature of enlightenment. Moonstone is a talisman on your journey toward higher consciousness. This stone reminds you that enlightenment is not about personal power but about the inherent power of unity.

Moonstone has the unique ability to activate each of your chakras. The spectral quality of Rainbow Moonstone naturally clears blockages between all chakras and allows energy to flow freely from the primal earth, through us, into cosmic consciousness. Blue moonstone is tied to the throat chakra and will encourage integrity of word and the ability to speak your truth. Peach and tan colored moonstone will activate the creative energy of the sacrum, making it ideal for fertility rituals and for harnessing maternal healing energy. Green moonstone stimulates the heart chakra and can ease feelings of jealousy by reminding the wearer that no one “possesses” love, we exist within it.

Ritual & Meditation with Moonstone

There are many practices that will draw on the power of Moonstone for manifestation. Plant this gemstone in the soil of your garden to increase the fertility and yield of your plants. Sew a small piece of moonstone into an often used article of clothing when trying to conceive. Place a piece of moonstone in your pillow to remember your dreams. Wear a moonstone ring on your left ring finger to attract love into your life. Use a wand of silver and moonstone for lunar rituals. This versatile crystal can be used to multiply your energy through adding wisdom from the natural world.

Use Moonstone when practicing any form of energy work. Lying down, place this stone on your forehead to promote psychic connection and intuition. Enclose moonstone in your left hand and place over the solar plexus and heart chakra to balance emotion. This “dream stone” has been used to catalyze lucid dreaming, astral travel, and shamanic visions. Moonstone can be incorporated in your next Crystal Grid for reflection, transformation, or manifesting.

Moonstone and The Tarot

Tarot is a rich tool for introspection and channeling the power of intuition. Moonstone is associated with several tarot cards of the Major Arcana. Exploring the meaning of these archetypes will add depth to your understanding of Moonstone and how it can be used to influence subtle energy in different areas of your life. Moonstone’s corresponding Major Arcana cards are: The Star (XVII), The World (XXI), and The Fool (0).

The Star

The Star card symbolizes the future, optimism, spiritual contemplation and insight. The Star represents renewed hope and faith in the cosmic balance. It acts as a guiding light during times of healing, providing a sense of peace and steady illumination on your path forward. This card appears when it’s time to trust your intuition.

The World

The World card connects you with the process of moving forward, trust, and completion of a cycle. The World represents life’s milestones and achievements. The appearance of this card indicates that things are coming full circle and your life is moving in harmony with the universe.

The Fool

The Fool card brings new beginnings, spontaneity, and living in the moment. It is time to follow your heart and take a leap of faith. Release fear of the unknown. The Fool also reminds you of the importance of awareness and the ability to care for your own well-being. This card asks you to balance mindfulness with the ability to embrace life and the present moment.

Additional Tarot Cards for Moonstone

Other Tarot cards linked to Moonstone are Five of Swords, Six of Swords, Seven of Swords, Knight of Swords, King of Cups, Page of Swords, and Ace of Swords.

How is Moonstone formed?

Moonstones, Sunstones, and Labradorites belong to the feldspar group of minerals. This stone was once called “Adularia” and was mined in the Swiss city Mt. Adular, now called St. Gotthard. The name for this Adularia crystal was gradually replaced by the colloquial term Moonstone. It’s new name was inspired by the stone’s Adularescence, or Schiller effect, referencing the way light seems to emanate from within the stone itself.

Moonstone is considered an orthoclase, which is the potassium rich end-member of the sodium-potassium alkali feldspar series. In order to achieve Adularescence, this orthoclase must mix with sodium end-member in this series, Albite. The albite and orthoclase intermingle as they begin their dance to the earth’s surface. As this crystal begins to cool, the layers separate into stacked, alternating layers. When light enters the stone, it becomes scattered and bounces back and forth between the layers before it exits as a moonlit glow known as Adularescence.

Moonstone Types and Physical Properties

(Traditional Moonstone)

In the same beautiful way moonlight glides across a large body of calm water, the glow of traditional moonstone appears to move across the surface of the stone as you turn it in the light. White moonstone with it’s pearly, almost metallic sheen, is a traditional favorite. Colorless specimens of orthoclase will produce a spectacular blue adularescence, a floating blue color on the surface, and are the rarest of moonstones.

Other varieties of moonstone can vary from honey beige to pink or even green in color. Often, peach and green varieties of moonstone can be seen with the appearance of a cat’s eye band or star-shaped concentration of reflected light on the surface of the stone. Rainbow moonstone seems to produce a magical flash of light across the crystal’s surface and dazzles us with it’s spectral color.

Moonstone Vs Rainbow Moonstone

“Moonstone” is a term which is now pervasively used to refer to both traditional fine moonstone as well as rainbow moonstone. You may be surprised to find out these are actually two different stones. Traditional Moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar and is quite rare. As traditional moonstone became more difficult to find, jewelers began using a feldspar cousin with a similar appearance.

Most modern moonstone is made from a plagioclase feldspar, which is much more accessible. Plagioclase, a transparent or white form of Labradorite, is referred to as “Rainbow moonstone” within the gem trade. Although it’s technically not moonstone, it’s similar enough that jewelers have accepted it as a substitution for traditional moonstone. Today, most modern moonstone jewelry is made from plagioclase and many prefer the look over traditional moonstone.

Moonstone Properties

History of Moonstone

During the rise of the bohemian movement and Victorian esotericism, moonstone gained popularity and was a favored gem throughout the romantic Art Nouveau Movement. The gemstone fell out of fashion during the Art Deco era but experienced a resurgence in the late 1960s. This iconic stone soon adorned dreamers and flower children, becoming a symbol of love in the Age of Aquarius.

Sacred Stories, Myth, and Legend of Moonstone

Moonstone seems to emit a soft lunar glow and is often tied to lunar deities. Just as the goddess Diana was once recognized as the queen of the sky, moonstone continues to represent the queen of our own night sky, the moon. This celestial stone has been called by many names throughout history. “Hecatolite” was a name given to moonstone by ancient Greeks. Moonstone was also referred to as ”Aphroselene”. The origin of this name came from unifying the names of Aphrodite, goddesses of love, and Selene, Goddess of the Moon.

In Hindu mythology, the god Vishnu is the steward of humanity, preserver, and protector of the universe. His role is to assist humanity in times of crisis and restore balance between good and evil. In one such time, myth describes a great battle between Lord Vishnu and the Demon god, Bali. When Vishnu struck Bali’s body it broke into gemstones and fell to earth. Moonstones are said to be pieces of moonbeams that fell from Bali’s eyes. This sacred stone of India is connected to “second sight”. Moonstone is believed to reveal the future of those who place this stone in their mouth during a full moon.

How to Cleanse Moonstone

It’s important to avoid exposing your gemstone to any cosmetic products such as makeup, moisturizer, and hairspray. These products can permanently affect luster and dull the sheen of any gemstone or crystal. It’s best to adorn yourself with gemstone jewelry as the finishing touch of your daily ritual. Moonstone is too delicate to be subjected to ultrasonic cleaning. Similarly, steam cleaning is not recommended. Extreme or sudden changes in heat can cause this gem to fracture and cause permanent damage. Warm soapy water and a soft brush is the safest way to physically clean your Moonstone gemstone. When in doubt, the International Gem Society is a wonderful resource for the care and cleaning of your gemstone.

How to Charge Moonstone

Energetically cleansing your gemstone ensures that all of its unique properties will remain intact. It is essential to periodically release any energetic impurities that may have been absorbed by your gemstone. Moonstone is a softer gem that cleaves easily and care must be taken with this stone. The best way to renew your Moonstone is by smudging the stone or burying it beneath the earth overnight. Rinse with gentle soap and water. Recharge your Moonstone on a Selenite plate during a waning moon or set your moonstone outside during a waxing moon. Allowing moonstone to be bathed overnight under full moon light is also an ideal way to recharge the energy manifested by this gemstone crystal.

Bring Moonstone Into Your Life With These Selections

Moonstone is effective in amplifying myriad vital physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energies. The versatility of this gemstone makes it highly prized and will serve anyone looking to bring peace and harmony to their lives. As well as more refined pieces, individual specimens of this stone are more common and can be used alongside other gemstones and crystals in metaphysical work. We have put together a collection of some of our favorite moonstone items. These “gems” will make beautiful gifts for yourself or someone you love.

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Moonstone Jewelry

Moonstone Metaphysical Tools

Moonstone Alter Pieces and Décor

How Will You Harness The Transformative Power of Moonstone?

We invite you to walk into a cosmic narrative in which we are all a unique element in each other’s story. Humanity has long used sacred tools for awakening the soul and illuminating our path toward enlightenment. Gemstones and crystals are simply instruments. They amplify your own intrinsic power to manifest your highest truth.

What aspects of Moonstone can serve you as you walk through your own Mystic Doorway?

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