Moon quartz is one of the rarest gems that are part of the varieties and types of quartz. It is basically a semi-transparent silicate which, when exposed to light, has a luminous effect similar to that of moonstone, this effect is known as adularescence.
Why does it have this beautiful color?
The moon quartz stone It has a luminous semi-transparent white color, very similar to the labradorite. However, the color and luminous effect of this variety of quartz is due to air and water bubbles trapped in the quartz crystal, which change color and intensity depending on the angle of the light and is therefore also similar to white quartz.
Properties and characteristics of moon quartz
Mineralogically this stone is considered a silicate, tectosilicate and a quartz stone, which has a luminous white color on a semi-transparent matrix.
Regarding its hardness and resistance, it is considered a fairly durable gem because it has a hardness on the scale of Mohs of 7 and therefore can be used in jewelery and costume jewelery no problem.
Its chemical composition is almost 100% is silica (SiO2) more water content (H2O) which is responsible for providing the luminous effect to the glass.
Below is a table with the physical, chemical and characteristic properties of the mineral and that serve for its identification.
| moon quartz | Physical and chemical properties |
|---|---|
| Class | Silicate, tectosilicate, quartz type |
| Brightness | Vitreous (dull in chalcedonies) |
| Color | Luminous white, bluish white |
| Stripe | colorless, white |
| Chemical formula | SiO2 + H2O |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Specific weight or density | 2.6 to 2.7 g/cm3 |
| cleavage | does not present |
| Fracture | conchoidal |
| crystalline system | trigonal |
| Applications | To make glass, as a jewel or gem, precious or semi-precious stone, Therapeutic properties |
Moon quartz stone meaning
As for its spiritual meaning, the moon quartz stone is related to peace, calm and the nobility of the soul. That is why people look for this gem with the aim of achieving peace of mind.
It is also said to provide confidence and security. In addition, it is a stone that highlights elegance and simplicity in people. Also in various cultures they have used this gem as a talisman that protects against bad energy.
Origin, formation and deposits
This mineral is generally found in association with hydrothermal fluids in volcanic environments close to rocks such as andesites, rhyolites, and granites. It can also appear on edges of intrusive rocks close to pegmatites.
The best samples of this stone have been found in Brazil, the United States and India.
Moon Quartz Gem Uses
Uses in jewelry and costume jewelery
Thanks to its resistance and its beautiful intense luminous white color wrapped in a crystalline matrix, moon quartz is used above all in jewelry and costume jewelery where accessories such as rings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets or chains.
In addition, it must be taken into account that this type of quartz is not very common to find in nature and therefore it is considered as a gemstonevaluable and rare.
As a collection and ornamental stone
Another interesting use for this stone is as a collectible gem. It is clear that this mineral is rare and very striking to look at, and for this reason mineral collectors are willing to pay top dollar for specimens of these stones. These gems are used to grace spaces in homes, offices, and museums.