Rainbow Moonstone Necklaces

Thin layers inside the stone scatter light into a soft flash that floats across the surface. It moves as you move, so a rainbow moonstone looks different at the collarbone than it does in a photograph. The effect shows best in a smooth, domed stone, which is why pieces such as the Cabochon Rainbow Moonstone Necklace, Solitaire are cut that way.

No. Rainbow moonstone is the trade name for white labradorite, a plagioclase feldspar related to moonstone, prized for its blue and multicolored flash. Classic moonstone is an orthoclase feldspar with a softer blue-white sheen. Both have a similar hardness and the same care. If you want true moonstone, the 4 mm Blue Moonstone Necklace, Prong Solitaire and the Blue Moonstone Necklace with Pendant (4mm) are in our moonstone jewelry collection.

No. The June birthstones are pearl, moonstone and alexandrite. Rainbow moonstone is labradorite, so it is not on the list, although its moonlit look makes it a popular choice for anyone who loves a soft, celestial piece.

Because facets break up the flash. A cabochon is polished into a smooth dome, which gives the light one continuous surface to glide across. The Cabochon Rainbow Moonstone Necklace with Diamond Frame pairs that soft dome with a border of diamonds for contrast.

They describe the stone itself. The 10x8 mm Rainbow Moonstone Necklace with Diamond Accent holds a stone 10 millimeters by 8, a size that is easy to see across a table. The 6x4 mm version is smaller and more delicate, and the 3mm bezel-set design is the most discreet.

It rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, softer than quartz, and it can split if struck hard at the wrong angle. A necklace is a good way to wear it, since it avoids the knocks a ring takes. Bezel and halo designs add protection: the Rainbow Moonstone Necklace, Bezel Set wraps the edge in metal, and the Rainbow Moonstone Necklace with Vintage Diamond Halo surrounds it with diamonds. Take it off for the gym and the pool.

Most designs come on an adjustable chain that wears at 16 or 18 inches; the Seven Stone Bar comes in your choice of 16 or 18 inches. At 16 inches the stone sits at the collarbone, where it catches the most light; at 18 it falls just below and works with a wider range of necklines. Each product page shows the options.

14K white gold and platinum sharpen the blue and keep the piece cool and modern. 14K yellow gold warms the milky body and gives it a vintage look. 14K rose gold flatters the softer, peachy tones some stones show at certain angles.

Yes. The Rainbow Moonstone Necklace, Family Is Forever Medallion carries its sentiment in the design, a natural choice for a mother, a grandmother or a sister. For a horizontal line instead of a single drop, the Rainbow Moonstone Necklace, Seven Stone Bar sets a row of small stones.

Soft things. The glow is quiet, so it can be overpowered by large, flashy stones nearby. It pairs well with pearl studs, which share a gentle luster, or with small diamond studs that add brightness without competing. For evening, the Rainbow Moonstone Necklace with Diamond Starburst has enough sparkle of its own to wear alone. With layered chains, let the moonstone sit on the shortest one, closest to the face, where the light reaches it best.

Use a soft cloth, warm water and a drop of mild soap, then dry it gently. Never put it in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner, and keep it away from heat and harsh chemicals. Store it apart from harder jewelry such as diamonds, which can scratch the polished dome. For a matching pair, see our rainbow moonstone earrings.