Moonlight Captured in Stone
Moonstone glows with a soft, floating light called adularescence — a billowy sheen that seems to drift just beneath the surface as the stone moves. Sri Lanka's finest moonstones show a magical blue sheen over a near-colourless, translucent body, and these are considered among the best in the world.
Moonstone is a variety of feldspar (hardness around 6–6.5). The shimmer is caused by light scattering between microscopic layers within the crystal.
A Famous Sri Lankan Source
Most of Sri Lanka's prized blue moonstone comes from Meetiyagoda, a small town near the south coast not far from Hikkaduwa. The mines here are a popular visit, and moonstone is one of the island's most affordable and beloved souvenirs.
What Affects Value
- Sheen colour — a vivid blue sheen is most prized; white/silver sheen is more common and affordable.
- Body clarity — a clean, transparent, colourless body lets the blue glow stand out.
- Cut — a well-domed cabochon centres the sheen.
Care Tip
Moonstone is relatively soft and can chip, so store it separately and avoid knocks. Clean gently with mild soapy water.
See the Source
Combine a moonstone visit with the south coast — browse Hikkaduwa accommodation or explore the Island of Gems overview.
Quick Facts
| Mineral | Feldspar |
| Effect | Adularescence (floating sheen) |
| Prized sheen | Blue (over a colourless body) |
| Hardness | ~6–6.5 (Mohs) |
| Famous source | Meetiyagoda, near the south coast |
| Cut | Cabochon |
Frequently Asked Questions
What gives moonstone its glow? An effect called adularescence — light scattering between microscopic layers creates a soft sheen that seems to float beneath the surface.
Why is Ceylon moonstone special? Sri Lanka's finest stones show a vivid blue sheen over a clear body, considered among the best in the world.
Where does it come from? Mainly Meetiyagoda, a town near the south coast not far from Hikkaduwa.
How should I care for it? Moonstone is relatively soft and can chip — store it separately and clean gently with mild soapy water.