This brief blog post will cover the basics of moss agate, the origins of the stone, the meaning and use of moss agate, why/who should wear moss agate, and how to take care of your moss agate jewelry.

What is Moss Agate?
Moss agate is part of the mineral family/quartz group, chalcedony. Chalcedony is cryptocrystalline or microcrystalline quartz sometimes mixed with morganite (depending on the type). Chalcedony comes in solid color varieties and other types defined by their inclusions and growth characteristics. Some common chalcedony types include green, blue, black onyx, sardonyx, sard, carnelian, jaspers, and agates. Jaspers and agates are revered for their extraordinary growth patterns and mixed colors.

Chalcedony may be heated, treated, or dyed in order to display a desired appearance, bringing out its innate natural characteristics and adding attractive wearability.

Moss agate contains manganese and/or iron oxide deposits that form into intriguing dendritic tree and moss-like inclusions, exuding a forest/garden inspiration reminiscent of moss, hence the name. These mesmerizing green growth patterns against a clear or milky-white translucent background give this striking agate a dreamy appearance. Chrome may also be a source of its wondrous green moss patterns.

Origins of Moss Agate
Moss agate is plentiful and is found worldwide. Deposits may be found in the USA, Brazil, India, European countries, and Uruguay as the primary sources. Moss agate is the result of volcanic activity and may also be referred to as the mocha stone.

Moss agate has been discovered near the Yellowstone River near Wyoming. This particular moss agate has a reddish, brown, and other neutral sandy shades with darker inclusions. This type of moss agate is called Montana Moss Agate and is exclusive to that region.

Moss agate is commonly found with other quartz and chalcedony varieties during the formation process.

Folklore of Moss Agate
Moss agate was known as the good luck stone or stone of fortune in the UK during the 18th century. It was frequently used as an ornamental fixture to attract money, abundance, and prosperity, placed around the house and in other areas to draw forth increased business and wealth.

Farmers used moss agate as a potent talisman stone, believing the lush green moss inclusions helped enhance the health of their seasonal crops. Hanging moss agate near fields ensured successful harvests, aiding in agricultural practices.

Metaphysical Properties of Moss Agate
Moss agate facilitates much-needed change and renewal in any area of life, encouraging creative ideas and spiritual endeavors.

The dendritic inclusions instill serenity and peace, enhancing mental clarity and restoring relationships by soothing over hurt feelings and uneven emotions resulting from stress and tension.

Allow the calming effect of moss agate to be a part of your metaphysical practices and gemstone collection. Remove mental blocks and negativity with this pretty stone, a reminder of the stillness of the forest and nature.

Moss Agate: The Stone for You
Who should wear moss agate? Moss agate may be considered similar to dendritic or rutilated quartz by some. These quartz varieties feature gorgeous needle-like inclusions. If you love those enchanting quartz types, you will adore moss agate. If you appreciate quartz (amethyst, citrine, rock crystal), jaspers, and onyx, moss agate will become an instant favorite of yours. For the love of green! If you admire emerald, malachite, peridot, and tourmaline, add moss agate to your green stone collection.

Avid gem and crystal collectors consider this one-of-a-kind agate a staple variety for their agate display.

Moss agate is most often affordable, making it the ultimate choice for your gemstone, crystal, and jewelry box. Wear agate and enjoy its eye-catching presence, suitable for work, casual, or night attire.

How to Take Care of Moss Agate
Moss agate is easy to take care of, perfect for those who are always on the go. Effortlessly clean your moss agate engagement ring with a soft brush or cloth and warm, very mild soapy water gently. Pat dry.

Do not put your moss agate in the sonic cleaner or other harsh liquid jewelry solutions. Moss agate should be gingerly taken care of when it is time for jewelry maintenance.

Always store your moss agate jewelry in a cloth bag, plastic jewelry bag, or jewelry box, away from other stones and jewelry. Storing or traveling with other gemstones may scratch and damage the surface of the stone.

Please note: moss agate 6.5-7 on the Mohs hardness scale (for reference, diamonds are a 10, the hardest of materials). This makes it durable enough to be worn frequently. However, extra care must be taken not to knock or drop your moss agate jewelry.

The post Moss Agate: Everything you need to know about Moss Agates appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

This article blog post will provide an introduction to alexandrite and all of its interesting facts related to this valuable stone. The information provided will briefly compare the natural vs. synthetic version of alexandrite.

Both natural and synthetic alexandrite provides a wonderful world of vibrancy and intrigue. Alexandrite is the ultimate treasure for the gem enthusiast and for those who appreciate the natural beauty of gems.

PRICE OF NATURAL VS. SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE:
NATURAL ALEXANDRITE: Natural alexandrite larger in size, free of inclusions, and saturated in color can become quite costly. Rare, fine quality alexandrite will command higher prices. Stones with a distinct color change, free of inclusions, and larger caratage sizes can retail for several thousand dollars.

SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE: Any simulated or synthetic version of the natural stone will not hold the same value as the natural. Synthetic alexandrite provides a fantastic alternative to natural alexandrite in terms of desired price points.

AVAILABILITY
NATURAL ALEXANDRITE : Although available on the market for purchase, natural alexandrite is a rarer, less common stone to find. There is always an abundance of quartz, beryl, and corundum to select from when shopping for fine jewelry. However, many retailers present a lesser quantity of alexandrite.

SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE: Synthetic alexandrite is frequently placed into imaginative fine jewelry creations as the center stone, just like natural alexandrite. Synthetic alexandrite is much easier to find in the caratage of your choice, size, and cut.

APPEARANCE OF NATURAL VS. LAB ALEXANDRITE
NATURAL ALEXANDRITE: Natural Alexandrite displays color change that may range from the lightest of light purple to grassy dark green, reddish hues, and deep blues depending on the stone. Some stones can showcase a deeply saturated, striking color change, while other stones may have a softer, less noticeable color change with less saturated color. Alexandrite may or may not contain inclusions depending on the stone and where it is sourced.

SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE:Synthetic alexandrite features the same color change phenomenon as natural alexandrite. Synthetic alexandrite offers a fantastic alternative to the natural version because it can also range different color change hues, just as the natural version. Depending on the stone, synthetic alexandrite can appear remarkably similar to the untrained eye.

DURABILITY OF NATURAL VS LAB ALEXANDRITE:
Alexandrite is a durable stone and is perfect for the person who wants to wear it frequently. Care must be taken no to knock, drop, or scratch the stone. Below are some durability factors to consider when comparing the two different selections.

DURABILITY OF NATURAL ALEXANDRITE: Alexandrite rates 8.50 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a terrific colored stone for frequent wear. Alexandrite is softer than corundum (sapphire and ruby, for example) which rates a 9. Quartz rates a 7 (such as amethyst and citrine), with the diamond as a 10 (the hardest). Alexandrite can be scratched by harder stones which may make it vulnerable if it is worn next to other jewelry.

DURABILITY OF SYNTHETIC/LAB CREATED ALEXANDRITE: Synthetic alexandrite was introduced into the market in the 1980s and is made to have the same properties as the natural counterpart. This means it has the same durability factors as the natural version.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ORIGIN
Natural Alexandrite: A Variety of the Mineral Chrysoberyl: Alexandrite is the rarest variety of the mineral, chrysoberyl (color change chrysoberyl), which is found in metamorphic rocks that contain different beryllium (hence the name chrysoberyl). Chrysoberyl displays pleochroism, an optical phenomena of color change and has the chemical formula of BeAl204.

Please note: Chrysoberyl is not a relative to beryl, another mineral that includes the precious emerald, aquamarine, and golden beryl varieties. Chrysoberyl DOES have a light greenish-yellow variety that is ideal for fine jewelry and faceted cuts, just like golden beryl.

Synthetic Alexandrite: Synthetic alexandrite is the lab-grown variation of natural alexandrite using beryllium aluminum oxide. Synthetic alexandrite is made to replicate natural chrysoberyl. Synthetic alexandrite will have the same SG (specific gravity) and refractive index as natural alexandrite. Synthetic alexandrite contains the same optical and physical properties as natural alexandrite.

SOURCING
NATURAL ALEXANDRITE: Chrysoberyl is found throughout the world, including countries such as Brazil, Myanmar, Russia, Zimbabwe and the United States. Alexandrite is mainly sourced from Sri Lanka, Brazil, Tanzania, in addition to other parts of Africa. Russia and India are important sources for alexandrite, supplying the world with stones that have intense color changes. According to GIA (Gemological Institute of America), alexandrite was first discovered in 1830 in Russia’s Ural Mountains. These alexandrite stones were of fine quality and exhibit vivid hues.

SYNTHETIC ALEXANDRITE: Synthetic or “lab grown” alexandrite is grown in labs under controlled conditions. There are different methods to create synthetic alexandrite. Each method may produce different colored stones with different color saturation.

Methods:
1. The flux-grown process may leave behind traces of platinum from the platinum cubicles used to grow the stone. These traces may appear as wispy inclusions.

2.Synthetic alexandrite is also grown using the Czochralski method. This method includes two different ways of growing the stone, including floating zone and pulling. Pulling is the most common method that also produces synthetic corundum.

Please note: Synthetic corundum is formed and created using a method to produce the color change effect. These stones are not synthetic alexandrite but another synthetic stone simulated to produce a look-a-like color change effect. These synthetic counterparts are sold under the name “synthetic alexandrite.”

IN CONCLUSION:
Enjoy the incredible beauty that both synthetic and natural alexandrite displays. Remove your alexandrite jewelry before it comes into contact with water or chemicals. Storing your jewelry in a safe place will keep it looking pristine.

Alexandrite is the birthstone for June and is also a great alternative to June’s other option, pearl. Alexandrite makes the ultimate anniversary gift, ideal for a unique present that will stand out from the crowd with this gorgeous color.

The post Natural Alexandrite vs. Synthetic/Lab Grown Alexandrite: A World of Possibilities appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

Diamond

When it comes to rings, weddings and engagements, it was always mistaken that only the biggest investment is going to make the most impact. That is where diamonds come in – and the investment part doesn’t just refer to a hefty price tag. Since they are so rare, their quality is often disputed on the market; what’s more, nowadays diamonds raise up the ethics question too.
As the solution, let’s introduce Moissanite, a relatively new (it was founded in the end of the 19th century) gem that is naturally occurring, but more frequently lab synthetized. So, we will cut to the chase of this gem duel and present the facts in the following table.

Know the difference:

Make your choice!
Picking the ring and gemstone for your engagement, vow renewal and wedding can be a tough task for some. But, the truth is – it is always a highly personal task to do, as every woman differs in terms of personal style and preference.
When it comes to diamonds and Moissanite, it is also up to you to sum up the pros and cons of each one; that is, if you definitely opt for a classic sparkly gem that is the epitome description of both the Moissanite and the diamond. It all starts with the things that matter the most for you. For example, if top-notch hardness is something essential to you, your choice would probably be the diamond.

However, we doubt that any lady puts that much stake on a physical property that is vital mainly for the industrial purpose of diamonds.
When it comes to durability, there is no doubt that these two are topping with their rank above all other gemstones (sapphire, ruby, emerald). Having that in mind, it wouldn’t be financially effective to forgo Moissanites for the sake of diamonds, as their price difference is exorbitant. It is more than encouraging to opt for Moissanite when it offers pretty much the same, sparkly things like the diamond. To add up, it is even more brilliant than its more expensive friend, having more luminosity that is definitely making it one-of-a-kind.
If the background ethics of a gem is highly concerning for you, go for Moissanite, as it doesn’t even spark a doubt about the potential sourcing, labor and society problems. This gem is completely flawless when it comes to ethics.

Even if all mentioned “virtues “of a good quality Moissanite still don’t ring a bell for you and you constantly dream about a beautiful diamond ring that will take the spotlight on your hands, taking compliments like: “Wow, your diamond looks magnificent!” etc., fear no more. If you non-compromisingly want that diamond effect on your hands with a somewhat limited budget (which is totally OK and understandable), rest assured that people won’t make a difference if you opt for a high quality Moissanite instead of a diamond. Of course, we are not saying they are a 100% identical – all we are saying is that unless someone is a gem connoisseur or works with gems professionally, no difference between the gems will be stated.

What to look for in a great Moissanite?
Only high quality Moissanites top the list of the most beautiful, most durable and most stylish gems out there, so be careful to look for the following:
– Cut – Exceptionally cut Moissanites express their brilliance the most. Do not let a badly cut Moissanite ruin its strongest property!
– D-E color – Following the diamond official color classification, D/E classified Moissanites are the clearest of them all, being totally transparent without any additional hues.
– Do not forget to take care after your precious Moissanite! Although extremely durable, you probably wouldn’t like to do hard physical work and chores while wearing your ring. Although it doesn’t pick up dust as fast as the other stones, it is advised to wash it every once in a while in a bowl filled with water with a few drops of sulfate-free cleanser. Or if you prefer, you can have it professionally cleaned.

These clear gemstones are extremely similar in design, cut and color – adding the lower price of Moissanite in the combo means that it is a great dupe for diamonds!

The post Know the difference: Moissanite VS Diamond appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

The value of difference, the difference of value

Being the best-known member of the beryl family comes with a price. And by price, we mean literally price. Emerald is the most expensive beryl, due to certain reasons. As many gemstones out there, it has to adhere to certain expectations, with color and transparency being the most important factors when it comes to this gem. The deepest green emeralds are the one with the biggest value. Darker the color, higher the price. Speaking of color, it is evident that micro particles – inclusions make all the difference, in other words, all beryls would remain colorless if there were none inclusions. The magic ingredient for the rich toned emeralds is chromium, and sometimes vanadium. However, it comes with a catch, as the inclusions have to remain invisible to the eye, which is hard to achieve, as the body of the gem is filled with micro fissures, making it easy for inclusions to pass by. Therefore, the flawless emerald has the perfect deeper green color that is equally distributed, with no darker accumulations.

With greater demand come greater innovations, and that’s how lab created emeralds were born. With no obvious and concrete difference at first sight, they may seem completely the same. But, as more glances get aimed towards the lab emerald, everyone would notice that it does lack something which is present in the natural emerald. Although synthetic emeralds have little to no fissures and inclusions, they get too similar to each other when observed in a bulk. On the other hand, natural emeralds always end up unique, with the special trait being that micro inclusion in the upper part of the gem, or even a very specific green hue, which is almost never the case with a synthetic gem. And of course, the economic aspect tells us that greater supply lowers the price, which is applicable in out synthetic vs. natural emerald comparison.

The many admirers of emeralds

Being an established gemstone present throughout the history, many stories, conspiracies and tales have been told about the emerald. As famous and beautiful as it is, the emerald was the gem of choice for the engagement rings of many famous ladies. Jackie Kennedy wore her Van Cleef & Arpels emerald and diamond combination ring proudly to many events and she has even redesigned it several times, with the emerald always remaining present.

Care for Emerald jewelry

Having elaborated on why and how an emerald is precious, once you get your hands on the gem, it should definitely be cherished and thoughtfully cared for. Being slightly softer than sapphire and ruby (and of course, diamond) it demands slightly bit more care than the named gems. Specifically, it should avoid heavy heat and chemicals, due to the tiny ruptures present on its surface. When it comes to cleaning, heavy duty ultrasonic and steam cleaners better be avoided. Instead, opt for some basic lukewarm soapy water.

The post What makes Emerald jewelry so expensive? appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

The origin of the rosy delight

Being a beryl essentially, it could be said that its distant and non-distant cousins include both emeralds and aquamarines. Although there may not be an initial correspondence coming to your mind when it comes to the mentioned gems, chemically speaking, all of them are beryllium aluminum cyclosilicates. Being discovered on Madagascar during the beginning of the previous century, it was named by one of the most influential businessmen of the time, J.P. Morgan. A few decades later, a true morganite treasure chest was found in the Maine area in the US. The biggest morganite stone was discovered there, which led to coining of the name “The Rose of Maine”. However, Brazil is the largest cradle of morganite today.

Its delicate, blush rose color is present due to Magnesium ions. However, a big amount of raw morganite has additional yellow and orange nuances. Because of that, it has to be often revamped with heat treatments that decrease those pigments and increase the rose color. Speaking Mohs hardness scale wise, it is a bit softer than the diamond. However, with its Mohs hardness being 8, it certainly is not to be called soft.

Besides the mentioned unwanted orange pigments a Morganite originally has, this precious gem is also a star in pleochroism, meaning different colors and hues are seen when the gem is observed through different angles and perspectives. That is exactly why it has to be properly oriented and cut. Because its color is ranging from blush rose to deeper violet pink, faceting is the key to enhancing the particular, always unique morganite color.

Vintage Inspired Pear Cut Morganite Ring – Blush

USD $1385

Crescent Moon Pear Cut Morganite Ring – Emilia

USD $1450

Crescent Moon Marquise Cut Morganite Ring – Selena

USD $1350

NEW

Vintage Marquise Cut Morganite Ring- Hope

USD $1650

Marquise Cut Halo Morganite Ring – Millie

USD $1500

Cushion Cut Morganite Engagement Ring – Esme

USD $1500

Crescent Moon Art Deco Morganite Ring – Serenity

USD $2550

Art Deco Round Morganite Ring – Priscilla

USD $2250

The special background of morganite

As with all gemstones, a special meaning and use is always attached. Besides the obvious one it gets by being a gift from a special someone, a morganite has a more general symbolism behind it. Intrinsically, the pinkish hue gives every morganite engagement ring a romantic, vintage vibe, perfect for once-in-a-lifetime events like engagements. While other precious stones may seem colder at certain times due to their color background (such as aquamarine, diamonds etc…), morganite is all about the color of love, sensuality and innocence.

Spiritually speaking, morganite is believed to create a cheerful aura around the wearer, lifting the euphoria up a little bit every time you look at it. It shows the world you are a caring and loving person, ready to take on the world through a caring, pink shield. Besides the delicateness surrounding, it is also an energy punch every once in a while, bringing joy to everyday activities and schedule.

Morganite – the top-of-the-mind modern choice

Although it is not quite a trend, it is definitely a tendency that will surely prevail during the next period, as morganite gained special popularity with millennial and Gen Z brides, but it is worthwhile mentioning that the morganite love is soaring among other generations as well.

So, the question is – why would you pick a morganite as THE gem for an engagement ring, a pair of special event earrings you want to invest in, or even as the center part of your new necklace. Well, the answer is simple – it exudes love with both its color and intricate faceting. Secondly, there is an interesting paradox; although it is proven that nature-wise, morganite is rarer than the most famous engagement gem, the diamond, the price of morganite is significantly lower than the price of a diamond, due to obvious economics and demand reasons. But, who knows, as with everything in society and nature, maybe the preferred engagement gems would stir up and switch in the future, and you end up with an upscale, vintage, heirloom morganite jewelry piece? Well, with the uniqueness tendencies nowadays, that is a very probable prediction.

Vintage Morganite Ring – Isabella

Rated 5.00 out of 5

USD $1135

Oval Morganite Ring – Laura

USD $1100

Vintage Oval Morganite Ring – Tiffany

Rated 5.00 out of 5

USD $1395

Pink Morganite Ring – Lottie

USD $1075

Half Moon Halo Morganite Ring – Hypatia

USD $1025

Oval Morganite Ring – Connie

USD $1135

Round Cut Natural Morganite Ring – Lawrence

USD $1135

Mini Floral Morganite Engagement Ring – Lizzie

USD $1225

Tips for looking after your precious stone

The precious rose treasure has to be taken care of, but luckily, morganites are not very spoilt when it comes to looking after them. The first thing you might think of is related to cleaning. Good news, morganites are low maintenance when it comes to this item, all you need is slightly warm, soapy water and voila! Your morganite piece is clean. What’s more, ultrasonic cleaners won’t do any harm either, unless the morganite has prominent fractures.

Try to avoid scratching it on rough surfaces, a common precaution with every gem out there. It should be mentioned that this preciousness can be attacked by hydrofluoric acid, which is presumed not to be in everyday, mundane use, unless you really like using heavy duty rust cleaners with your goody morganites on. And that is something we truly doubt.

The post Why the Morganite could be a perfect fit for your wedding ring appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

Opal is one of the gemstones always thrilling and never failing to amaze the gemstone hunters, so to speak. Why is that so? Well, it is magnificent because of its famous play-of-color, a spectrum of colors originating on a background of a prominent color. The background’s color is created due to the immersed substances between the silica spheres since opal is essentially a form of hydrated silica.

Nevertheless, no one wants to analyze the chemical reactions that happen on the inside (although chemistry is always the key of certain things). We all want to grasp the outside and rejoice at its look and feel. But, before we do that, we have to get the opal. Although that may sound pretty straightforward, every search for a genuine opal would end up with a new choice – Ethiopian opal or Australian opal? Opal newbies may think it is just a trend based on origin, but actually, the two of the opal varieties really differ.

Meet the Ethiopian opal

Originating in Wollo, Ethiopia, commonly known also as the Welo opal (mostly because of spelling), is a type of the most sought-after opal in the world. Wollo is the home of both common and precious opals, which bring us to a new crossroad. Common opal is more neutral regarding the look, meaning its glow is uniform and doesn’t bring much of a color spectrum to the gem. Sure, this one is great for a classic, vintage and minimal look. But, for the “more is more” fans out there, there is the rare, precious opal, bringing your vivid, colorful dreams come true in one single gemstone.

Ethiopia is the home of other opal varieties too. For example, the fire opal is definitely one of the most astonishing gems (not only opals) out there, dazzling with its fierce attitude, reminiscent of a phoenix’s egg.

Opals shown in the image above are natural Ethiopian Opals that are used for Oval Ethiopian Opal Ring – Clara 

But, probably the most prominent feature of the Ethiopian opal is that it is hydrophane. Yes, it is associated with water. Being hydrophane means that when the opal is immersed in water, it temporarily changes its color, light and transparency. Some of the hydrophane opals can increase their mass by 15% when contact with water is made. But, the absorbed water gets out within a few days (weeks) time, the same way it got in. Therefore we do not recommended for any opal to be immersed in water whatsoever.

Meet the Australian opal

This is the most common opal found in the world, with Australia being one of the first discovered opal sources. As with similar kinds of goods, conquering the market first managed to skyrocket the prices for this variety of opal. After this one came the Ethiopian, Mexican and more opal varieties and origins. But, due to those simple economy laws, Australian opal still is the most expensive opal, even to this day.

Quite the opposite of the Ethiopian opal, the Australian opal is being found deeper in the ground, meaning it contains more water than the Ethiopian and it is not hydrophane. 

The verdict

So, the question is – which opal to choose? There is a phenomenon known as crazing, which causes small cracks to appear in the opal when it is damaged through time. That is why it is strongly advised that neither Australian nor Ethiopian opal are exposed to intense physical activities.

But now on the other side of the judgment – the price. Although both the Ethiopian and Australian opal are SiO2·nH2O (which is hydrated amorphous silica), their prices differ way too much due to the fact that Australian opal has more tradition and was discovered a long time before the Ethiopian. The truth is, all of the opals are unique and there isn’t a single one that has a duplicate to be found in nature. Therefore, the high price of the Australian opal isn’t justified and we give the advantage to the Ethiopian opal, which also has astonishing play-of-color nowhere to be found.

Ethiopian opal rings from Sunday Island

The picture above is our Vintage Inspired Opal Ring – Annabelle  in solid 14k rose gold, you can find more Ethiopian rings here: Teardrop Opal Halo Ring – Arabella   Oval Ethiopian Opal Ring – Clara

Asutralian opal rings from Sunday Island

The following image is our Oval Australian Opal Ring – Lydia in solid 14k rose gold. Take a look at our other Australian opal rings: Heart Shape Opal Ring – Melissa   Oval Australian Opal Ring – Marielle

Taking care of your Ethiopian opals

Ethiopian Opal is a delicate stone that requires the wearer to take care of it properly. They are considered hydrophane opals and have the ability to adsorb water or liquids. A contact with water, chemicals, oil or heat may result in a discoloration or a permenant damage. Please do not wear your opal jewelry while cooking, washing hands, taking showers, swimming or any physical activities that will put the stone at a risk of damaging. After every wear, the best cleaning method for Ethiopian opal jewelry is to use a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dirt, residue, and oils.

Taking care of your Australian opals

The post The difference between Australian Opal and Ethiopian Opal appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

Where and when is it found

Being a favorite among the Romans and Greeks, a good quality moonstone is something surely deemed as extremely precious, classic and antique. Today, the hearts of the many moonstone earrings, necklace pendants and rings are found in Burma, Sri Lanka, India, Mexico, the US and more countries, meaning it is not continent or region specific.

Speaking chemistry-wise, moonstone is a sodium potassium aluminum silicate, belonging to a group of special minerals called feldspars. Because of its fused nature (it is made out of more varieties of feldspar), a moonstone gem has tiny layers between those elements. That trait is to be thanked for the most special characteristic of the moonstone – its adolescence. When light hits those layers, a mystic, foggy luster is created, which is mostly reminiscent of a glowing and a bit ghostly moon shine. When you look at it, you simply think of fresh, clear nights or even classic moon shine playing with the tides, with the tides moving simultaneously as you move the moonstone around its axis.

Meaning and use of moonstones

Besides the obvious physical appeal as the main reason for it to become a top-of-the-mind gemstone choice, the exact same physical appearance is responsible for many perceptions, beliefs and stories about the moonstone.

First of all, its glowy, tranquil look makes it easy to see why one of the strongest beliefs regarding this gem is that it brings serenity, peace and exquisite feminine energy to the wearer. Although someone might not take spiritual promises for granted, still, it is true that just looking at this artisan gem would make your mind slightly wander off to another place or dimension, where things are stress free and peaceful, without the added eerie feeling.

All of the mentioned moonstone properties are obviously attributed to women, meaning moonstone has immense feminine energy, aiding everyday female tasks and duties, such as being a great mother or wife, but also a skillful businesswoman. Due to its calming and balancing abilities, moonstone found many applications among feng shui practitioners and in the Buddhism religion. Speaking of birth months, the moonstone is associated with June.

Moonstone jewelry had a specific rebirth of popularity during the Art Nouveau era, with many prominent designers and jewelers using them to create a modern, but ethereal look.

Why should you pick a moonstone?

It is a pity that some gem varieties, less known to the general audience are unreasonably pushed by the classic, popular gems. But, if you opt to have an authentic look that is bound to create a mysterious and feminine aura around you, a moonstone ring, necklace or a pair of moonstone earrings is an exceptional choice to make.

It is not as mainstream as the diamond, although it is translucent and bright like a fine diamond. Also, it has some similarities with opals (if you are a fan of them), since it has similar optic effects happening, but only on the colder color side of the spectrum. When it comes to the color itself, a moonstone luster reflects on the hues found in aquamarines and sapphires. How cool it is to be a meeting point of so many gems?

How to take care of your moonstone jewelry

Being the source of balance and energy, it would be a shame to treat your moonstone ring (earrings or pendants) with little to no care. Avoid all kinds of physical, intense contact with the moonstone, especially if the gem is mounted on a ring. That means no furniture transporting, sudden movement exercises or cleaning with this precious fellow on your finger. Of course, the same precautions apply for necklaces, bracelets and earrings, just that they are not as often in direct contact with things around us like it is the case with rings.

Another property is witnessing the feminine fragileness, and it is the Mohs hardness scale. The moonstone is somewhere in the medium to soft range of stones according to the scale, meaning it should be looked after in order to prevent cracking. In real time, the advice is to avoid exposing the gem to high temperatures, so forget ultrasonic or cleansers that work with steam. It is best to use plain water and a mild detergent and then you could rest assured that the moonstone’s shine, magic and energy isn’t disrupted at all.

The post What to think about when buying a Moonstone ring appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.

At SundayIsland, you can find a series of exclusive jewelries that are handmade in silver and gold, and all of our customers are always very welcome to place an personalized order. The goal of SundayIsland is to inspire our customers, making eternal and unique jewelry pieces for all jewelry lovers.

Our favorite material includes silver, 14k gold, 18k gold, excellent cut diamond and a variety of natural gems such as tourmaline, spinel, aquamarine,tanzanite and so on. All of these materials are very popular to use for wedding or engagement which also allow you to keep as a lifetime jewelry . We can also help our customer to find a specific material or gemstone based on their personal preference. Please feel free to contact us by email to support@sundayisland.se

Thank you for supporting independent design and handmade jewelry.

SundayIsland

The post Information about us – Sunday Island appeared first on Sunday Island Jewelry.