Rainbow Moonstone Jewelry

Rainbow moonstone is the trade name for white labradorite, a plagioclase feldspar related to moonstone, prized for its blue and multicolored flash. It is a natural gem, never glass or a lab-made imitation, and it is almost always cut as a smooth cabochon so the flash can travel across the dome.

No. Classic moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar, also called adularia, while rainbow moonstone is labradorite, a plagioclase feldspar. They are cousins within the feldspar family, with a similar look, hardness and care, and the jewelry trade has used the name rainbow moonstone for decades. We use it because it is the name shoppers know, and every product page says what the stone is. For true moonstone, see our moonstone jewelry.

No. The June birthstones are pearl, moonstone and alexandrite. Rainbow moonstone is labradorite, so it is not on the birthstone list, even though its moonlit look is often compared to moonstone. If you want a June birthstone, choose a piece from our moonstone jewelry collection.

Light scattering between very thin layers inside the stone. The effect moves as you tilt it and is strongest under a single direct light, such as a window, a lamp or a restaurant spotlight. Under flat, diffuse light the stone can read as a soft milky white with only a hint of blue, and the color returns as soon as it catches the light again.

It is the same mineral with a different body. Most labradorite has a gray to dark body with a blue, green or gold flash. Rainbow moonstone is the clear to white variety, so its flash sits on a light, milky background, which gives it a softer, more luminous look in fine jewelry.

Rainbow moonstone is generally sold untreated. Most of our listings state a natural, untreated stone; where no treatment information is published for a particular stone, the product page says so rather than guessing.

Earrings and pendants, yes. Rainbow moonstone rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and has cleavage, so rings need more thought. Wear a rainbow moonstone ring for occasions or on the right hand, choose a bezel or halo, and take it off for the gym, gardening and chores.

White gold and platinum keep the blue flash cool and bright. Yellow gold warms the milky body and gives it a vintage feel, and rose gold is the softest pairing. Rings and pendants come in 14K white, yellow or rose gold; every necklace and most earrings also come in platinum.

Facets would break the flash into small pieces. A smooth dome gives light one continuous surface to travel across, so the blue sweeps over the stone as it moves. A rounded cabochon also has no sharp corners to chip, which helps a softer gem.

Opal is hydrated silica rather than a feldspar, and it shows play of color, patches of spectral color that shift as it moves. Rainbow moonstone shows a single sweeping flash, usually blue. Opal is slightly softer, at 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, and both reward a protective setting.

A bright, even flash that covers much of the dome, a clear to milky body, and a smooth polish. Strong blue is the most prized color, and hints of violet or gold add interest.

No two stones flash exactly alike, so expect small natural variations in color, body and inclusions from the photograph. Fine dark needles inside the stone are common and natural.

Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, then dry it gently. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, harsh chemicals and high heat. See our jewelry cleaning guide.

Not as a bridal line, since the stone is soft for daily wear. Our rainbow moonstone rings are fashion and occasion rings. For a durable colored engagement stone, see sapphire engagement rings.

Every rainbow moonstone ring is made to order in the size you select, and rings are final sale, so measure first with our sizing guide. Between sizes, choose the larger one for wider bands and domed styles.