The Feldspars: Moonstone, Labradorite & Sunstone

Feldspar is the most abundant mineral group in the Earth's crust, but specific gem varieties show distinct optical phenomena produced by light scattering between microscopic, alternating layers of different feldspar compositions.

Moonstone displays adularescence, a billowing, ghostly blue or white light that floats across the gem's surface. Labradorite exhibits labradorescence, a metallic iridescence of blues, greens, and golds. Sunstone is prized for aventurescence, a sparkling, glittery effect caused by flat, highly reflective metallic inclusions (typically copper or hematite) suspended within the crystal.

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