Moonstone Engagement Rings: An Overview
Modern times is not the first time moonstone has been given appreciation. Moonstone has been around as long as Western civilization. The stone even dates back to ancient jewelry of the Orient. The Greeks and Romans believed the stone was moonbeams in rock format, a gift from the lunar deities.
Moonstone is part of the feldspar family, a group of gems containing the desirable adularescence quality. Adularescence is the magical look a moonstone gives as light billows across the surface of the stone. Think of how clouds billow across the sky. Light does the same thing on a moonstone. The stone appears to change colors as the light reacts with the stone at different angles. Moonstones are not as hard as diamonds. While diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, moonstones sit around 6.0 to 6.5.
”During formation, orthoclase and albite separate into alternating layers. When light falls between these thin layers it is scattered producing the phenomenon called adularescence.” Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
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To help you with the diamond buying process we lean on our expertise and experience. The author of this article, our CEO, Mike Fried has over 20 years of experience in the diamond industry. Mike started from the bottom, sorting and evaluating hundreds of thousands of diamonds to learn every facet (pun intended) of diamond quality and value. Mike followed that up by spending years buying and selling diamonds on the wholesale market as well as selling tens of millions of dollars worth of diamonds to diamond retailers.
The moonstone can vary in hue between pearly white, pink, blue and even gray. Many stones have the illusion of an inner light or translucence, giving a mythical sentiment.
The healing properties of this attractive stone have been in belief systems for centuries. Helping insomnia, menstrual cramping, and a man’s attunement with his lover are a few of the said remedies of the moonstone. Some believers “charge” their moonstones by setting the stone under a full moon.
Fun fact: Florida chose moonstone as the official state gem even though it is not found anywhere in the state. Their reason was to commemorate their part in the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Deal Alert: Get 25% off engagement ring settings at Blue Nile! (valid until May 6th)
Moonstone Engagement Rings: Popular Settings & Styles
Moonstone engagement rings are found in many different settings and styles.
A bezel setting is a lovely way to secure the stone to a setting.
Securing the stone with prongs is another gorgeous option for a moonstone engagement ring.
Moonstone engagement rings have allure when set with any metal. We particularly enjoy the contrast with rose gold and yellow gold. Add a halo of diamonds or a diamond band and you’ve found a truly glamorous piece.
Moonstone Engagement Rings: Pros and Cons
Moonstone engagement rings have grown hugely in popularity over the last few years, with people drawn to this stone’s gorgeous, unique appearance. According to an article published in National Jeweler, interest in moonstone started to grow around 2011, with most stones available today sourced from India, Sri Lanka and Madagascar.
While there are as many different options of engagement ring as there are different couples, moonstone can be a perfect fit for an engagement ring. For a couple who wants a more unconventional style, or a unique take on the classic diamond, moonstone is a great option.
Keep in mind that Moonstones are not as hard as diamonds. While diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, moonstones sit around 6.0 to 6.5. A softer stone presents its own challenges.
Pros:
- Moonstone can look very classy and elegant while remaining unique and free-spirited.
- It has a celestial, dreamy, mellow look compared to the glittering of a diamond.
- The cost of a moonstone is less expensive so you can get a bigger stone for a fraction of the cost of a diamond.
- The milky appearance of the stone looks great on all skin-tones.
- A moonstone ring is a great way to start conversations!
- Moonstone can be more eco-friendly than a diamond since many jewelers source them ethically.
Cons:
- The wearer must be more conscious of avoiding scratches on the moonstone.
- Moonstone engagement rings must be carefully stored when not worn. The best place to keep them is the original box so other jewelry can’t scratch it.
- There aren’t as many options and settings to choose from for a moonstone engagement ring. There are less jewelers supplying high-quality moonstone rings than diamond rings.
- There are fault lines within the stone (called cleavage). If hit hard enough, the stone can shatter.
There are a lot of variables when considering the best engagement ring for you. We are always here to help. Contact us and we’ll provide individual support to find the perfect engagement ring for your budget and style.
Tips for buying Moonstone Engagement Rings:
Consider the style of the soon-to-be wearer of the ring when choosing an engagement ring. Do they have traditional taste? A diamond engagement ring would be more appropriate. If they enjoy a more bohemian style, a moonstone engagement ring may be perfect. They will be wearing this ring the rest of their lives. It’s best for them to feel comfortable.
We have a lot of great tips for helping you choose a ring your partner will love.
If you’ve decided to buy a moonstone engagement ring, you’ll want to know a few characteristics to look for and to avoid.
Color
The color of a moonstone is a personal choice. There is no correct color or wrong color. Let your style guide your preference for blue, yellow, peach, pink or a different color.
The most popular moonstone is a colorless stone with a blue sheen (blue adularescence). If the blue sheen is visible from all angles of the stone, all the more valuable it becomes.
Clarity
You’ll want a moonstone that is transparent or translucent. Some moonstones are opaque which takes away some of the magical movement we love in this stone.
The biggest flaw (inclusion) to look for as you choose your stone are tiny cracks. The jewelry world refers to them as centipedes. While these centipedes can help determine if the moonstone is real (rather than fabricated), large ones can negotiate the integrity of a stone.
Cut
Moonstones are cut to have facets or smoothed to have a dome shape. Both appearances are stunning. The smooth dome cut, called cabochon, highlights the sheen on the stone. A cut containing facets is a lovely way to hide inclusions and add depth and texture.
Carat
Since moonstones aren’t a rare gem, they come in many sizes. Most popularly, moonstones featured in jewelry are less than 5 carats.
Best Places to Buy Moonstone
Wanting the best places to buy a moonstone ring? We have a few suggestions.
- Blue Nile– The leading place we’ve found for fashionable and quality moonstone rings.
- Amazon– While you won’t always find the highest quality rings through Amazon, there are a few worthwhile if you do some digging.
Our Favorite Moonstone Rings
Elegant Halo Moonstone Ring
The sparkling halo of this petite Cabochon Moonstone ring from Blue Nile is a gorgeous accent to the luster of this round-cut white moonstone. The 14K yellow gold setting takes the glamor up a notch for an elegant appeal.
Classic Pavé Moonstone Ring
This spectacular gray Moonstone Cabochon ring from Blue Nile has a true depth of distinction. The soft sheen of the gray moonstone pairs perfectly with the brilliance of the diamond side stones. The 14K yellow gold setting balances the entire look.
Cheap & Luxurious Moonstone Ring
The pure moonstone combined with the narrow yellow gold band come together in true luxury for little money in this rainbow Moonstone Engagement Ring from Amazon. This piece is in the lower price point for moonstone engagement rings.
Petite and Thin Moonstone Ring
A dainty ring, the white gold brings forth the magical color of the moonstone. Combined with two diamond side-stones, this Moonstone ring from Amazon is quaint and beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions about Moonstone
We’d love to answer some of the common quandaries about moonstone!
What metals and settings look best with moonstone?
14K and 18K white gold, yellow gold and rose gold are always our recommendation for engagement ring settings. They are durable and contain enough gold alloy (mixture) to have a gorgeous sheen.
Yellow gold will bring out the glamor and elegance of the moonstone.
White gold will bring out the mystical color and sheen of the stone.
Are there variations of color (hue) in moonstones?
Yes, there are many different colors of moonstone. They are white, gray, pink, peach, yellow, and more. People love the sheen of the stone which can take on its own color and movement.
How much do moonstone engagement rings usually cost?
A moonstone engagement ring will cost around $500 USD but can vary in price. For a quality appearance, expect to spend at least $100 USD. Some moonstone engagement rings cost thousands.
How to Care for a Moonstone Engagement Ring?
The sensitive nature of the stone means it’s best to remove it when cleaning, moving heavy objects, or working out. Your moonstone ring will be safe in a felt bag or its original case.
If a scratch does appear on your moonstone, a jeweler can usually bring back the smoothness with a polishing.
At home, you can clean your ring by soaking it a few minutes in warm, soapy water. Rinse, pat dry, and wear again.
How do I know if my moonstone is real?
It is easy to know if your moonstone is real if you know what to look for. A real moonstone is going to have a layered structure inside, often visible to the eye. There may be slight inclusions or tiny cracks that shout, “I’m real!” As mentioned earlier, ensure these cracks don’t threaten the integrity of the stone.
The quickest way to figure out the authenticity of your stone is the heat test. Natural stones heat up gradually. If you hold the stone in your hand, it’s likely to stay cool. If the “stone” heats up quickly, it’s safe to say it is a glass imitation.
Conclusion
Moonstones are a great choice as an engagement ring. While they are less durable than diamonds, their soft luster is great for a non-conventional style.
If you’re concerned about the durability of a moonstone, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds also make great stones for a ring worn everyday. There are a lot of charming non-traditional engagement rings out there, many of which are more durable than moonstone.
Like with any other major purchase, it’s important to choose an engagement ring carefully. You want quality without spending more than you should. If you need help selecting a moonstone engagement ring, or figuring out if it’s the best option for you, contact us. We’ll help you find the perfect match for your style and budget.
Here are more specific gemstone topics to browse:
- What to consider when buying gemstone jewelry
- What is there to know about a Sapphire gemstone
- White Sapphire: What is it and how to shop for one?
- Green Sapphire: What is it and how to get one?
- Pink Sapphire: How to get the best value?
- How to choose a Yellow Sapphire for an engagement ring?
- A complete guide to Blue Sapphire engagement rings
- What is a Ruby gemstone?
- How to buy green Emerald jewelry?
- How much do Amethyst gemstones cost?
- What is an Opal stone?
- How much to spend on a Peridot engagement ring?
- What’s the difference between Natural and Cultured Pearls?
- Pros & Cons of buying a Morganite engagement ring
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
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