Moonstone Price in UK by Color and Size
What is Moonstone price in the UK? Is it a valuable mineral? In this article, we will cover these questions and more. Let’s delve into everything you need to know about the price of moonstone in the UK.
Moonstone is known for its enchanting properties and has been a popular gem for centuries now. It is associated with mystery and magic. Moonstone belongs to the feldspar group of minerals and is renowned for its unique adularescence, a phenomenon where light creates a mesmerizing glow on its surface.
This gemstone has been associated with linear energies, and feminity for centuries. Apart from its physical appeal, moonstone is said to have powerful healing properties such as calming the mind, and emotional healing.
Whether you are a collector or a jeweler, here is everything you need to know about the price of Moonstone in the UK and its worth.
What is Moonstone
Moonstone is a variety of feldspar, a mineral group that also includes orthoclase and labradorite. It is characterized by its distinct sheen, often referred to as adularescence, caused by the scattering of light between microscopic layers of the stone.
This play-of-color gives moonstone an otherworldly appearance, resembling the soft glow of moonlight, which is how it earned its name.
Moonstone is found in various locations across the world, with significant deposits in countries like the United States, India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.
The stone has been prized for centuries and is often used in jewelry, particularly in rings, earrings, and pendants, where its captivating play of color can be prominently displayed.
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What is Moonstone Price in UK
The value of the moonstone can vary on a lot of factors like color. Here is how much a moonstone is worth in the UK by color.
1. White Moonstone
White moonstone is one of the most common and widely available varieties. Its translucent to opaque appearance, coupled with a white or colorless body, allows for a prominent display of adularescence.
The sheen on the white moonstone often appears as a soft blue or silver glow, creating an enchanting effect reminiscent of moonlight on water.
The price of a white moonstone is determined by the intensity of its adularescence. Stones with a strong, vibrant play-of-color are generally more valuable than those with a faint or subdued sheen.
How much is a white moonstone price in UK: A white moonstone can sell for GBP 7.94 to GBP 7935 per carat depending on the purity of the gem.
2. Blue Moonstone
Although not common, blue moonstone is also known as rainbow moonstone. It is known for its captivating blue adularescence.
This variety often displays a range of colors, including blue, violet, and sometimes even hints of green. The intensity and diversity of colors contribute significantly to the value of blue moonstone.
High-quality blue moonstones with a strong and distinct blue adularescence are prized in the market. Stones that exhibit a full spectrum of colors, creating a rainbow effect, are particularly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
How much is a blue moonstone worth in the UK: A blue moonstone can sell for GBP 39 to GBP 7935 per carat depending on the size of the gem.
3. Cat’s Eye Moonstone
Cat’s eye moonstone is a unique variety that displays striking chatoyancy, resembling the slit-eye of a cat. This effect is caused by the presence of parallel, needle-like inclusions that reflect light in a concentrated line across the surface of the stone.
The cat’s eye effect is highly prized in gemstones and adds a distinctive allure to the moonstone. Stones with a sharp, well-defined line that moves smoothly across the surface are considered more valuable.
How much is a cat’s eye moonstone worth in the UK: A cat’s eye moonstone can sell for GBP 24 to GBP 7935 per carat depending on the intensity of chatoyancy.
4. Colorless Moonstone
A colorless moonstone lacks the vibrant hues of other varieties and possesses a subtle and understated beauty. The absence of color allows the stone’s adularescence to take center stage, creating a soft and enchanting glow.
Colorless moonstone is often used as a versatile and neutral option in jewelry designs. Stones with a clear, transparent appearance and a strong play of color are considered more valuable.
How much is a colorless moonstone price in UK: A colorless moonstone can sell for GBP 7.94 to GBP 7935 per carat depending on the clarity of the crystal, as well as the strength of its adularescence.
Factors Determining the Price of Moonstone
Beyond the specific color varieties discussed above, several factors contribute to the overall price of moonstone such as:
Transparency
The transparency of the moonstone plays an important role in determining its value. Transparent or semi-transparent stones with a clear body and vibrant play-of-color are generally more valuable than opaque or heavily included specimens.
Size
As with other gemstones, large specimens are often more valuable. Larger moonstones with a captivating play-of-color and minimal inclusions command higher prices.
However, it’s essential to strike a balance, as excessively large stones may exhibit a weaker play of color.
Cut
The cut of a moonstone can affect its play of color and overall appearance. Well-cut stones that maximize the visibility of adularescence are more valuable. Cabochon cuts are commonly used for moonstone to enhance the play of color.
Clarity
The presence of inclusions can impact the clarity and overall appearance of moonstone. Stones with minimal inclusions or those that have inclusions that enhance the play-of-color, such as the needle-like inclusions in a cat’s eye moonstone, are generally more valuable.
Origin
The geographic origin of a moonstone can influence its value. Stones from certain regions, such as Sri Lanka and India, are often considered more desirable due to their historical significance and reputation for producing high-quality moonstones.
Treatment
Moonstones are sometimes treated to enhance their color or clarity. While gentle treatments like heat may be accepted, extensive treatments that significantly alter the stone’s natural characteristics can impact its value negatively.
Moonstone Price FAQs
Is moonstone a valuable stone in the UK?
Moonstone is a rare gem and is considered valuable in the UK, especially the ones with a blue sheen.
How much is a moonstone gem worth?
Moonstone is a high-valued gemstone, with prices ranging from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per carat.
What is the rarest color of moonstone?
The rarest and most expensive moonstone is colorless with a floating blue color. It costs around GBP 79 to GBP 7935 per carat.
Conclusion
Now you know about the moonstone price in the UK. Moonstone, with its enchanting play-of-color, remains a popular gemstone in the UK among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Whether you are a collector or a jeweler, understanding the worth of moonstones, particularly by color, allows you to make informed decisions when purchasing or appreciating these mystical gems.
There are various factors that determine the price of a moonstone such as color, size, cut, carat, and more. understanding these factors, one can develop a discerning eye for evaluating and appreciating the true worth of moonstone.
