Moonstone vs Rainbow Moonstone: Know The Major Differences
Gemstones have a history of captivating individuals due to their beauty as well as their enchantment. Moonstone, as well as Rainbow Moonstone, are two of the most popular types of gemstones in both crystals and astrology, due to their luminosity and positive energy. Moonstone and Rainbow Moonstone have names that suggest they’re the same, yet they represent very different types of stones in terms of composition, colour, and usefulness.
If you’re interested in purchasing any of these gemstones, or you’d like to learn more about them based on astrology, you may find this guide helpful. It will give you a better idea about the differences between these two gemstones, as well as their various properties, uses, and prices. Also Read: Which Gemstone To Wear On Which Day
What is Moonstone?
Moonstone is a beautiful gemstone, which is also called chandrakant mani. This gemstone belongs to the feldspar mineral family. It is known for its lovely soft milky appearance and a unique glow called adularescence. The glow of this gemstone resembles moonlight floating on water.
Main Features of Moonstone
Moonstone is normally found in white or creamy shades with a soft blue sheen. It has a smooth look that makes it highly popular in modern jewelry. The stone is associated with feminine energy, intuition, and emotional balance.
Astrological Benefits of Moonstone
Moonstone is strongly connected with the Moon (Chandra), and it provides the following benefits to the wearer:
- This gemstone is believed to calm the mind
- It is also helpful in healing the problems related to stress
- It is known to enhance intuition
- It is believed to improves the sleep quality of the wearer
- It strengthens the relationship between the wearer and their family
Because of these benefits, Moonstone is often recommended for people dealing with anxiety, mood swings, or emotional imbalance.
What is Rainbow Moonstone?
Rainbow Moonstone is actually not a variety of Moonstone. In reality, this gemstone is a type of labradorite. It is famous for displaying unique light bands or flashes of colors on its surface. These bands of light or flashes can be visible in several colors, such as blue, golden, and sometimes in mixed colors, forming a rainbow.
Main Features of Rainbow Moonstone
Unlike normal Moonstone, Rainbow Moonstone shows a brighter and more colorful play of light. This effect is known as labradorescence, which gives it a more striking and modern appearance.
Astrological Benefits of Rainbow Moonstone
Rainbow Moonstone is believed to:
- Boost intuition and spiritual awareness of the wearer
- It also protects the wearer from negative energies
- It enhances creativity and artistic expression
- It enhances emotional balance
This gemstone is generally worn by people interested in spiritual growth and energy healing.
Major Differences Between Moonstone and Rainbow Moonstone
Below, we have listed some of the major differences between a normal moonstone and a rainbow moonstone:
1. Composition and Origin
Moonstone
Moonstone is a gemstone that is associated to the orthoclase feldspar mineral group. It is considered a traditional gemstone, which has been used for astrological purposes for centuries.
Rainbow Moonstone
On the other hand, Rainbow Moonstone is not an original variety of moonstone. In fact, it belongs to the labradorite feldspar mineral family. It must be kept in mind that, despite its name, it is not an original moonstone.
2. Appearance and Color
Moonstone
Moonstone has a soft, milky white to peach appearance. Sometimes this gemstone is also found to display a gentle blue sheen. In addition to this, the glow of a real moonstone is subtle and elegant.
Rainbow Moonstone
On the other hand, Rainbow Moonstone is famous for displaying several vibrant flashes of blue and rainbow. This makes this gemstone very attractive and eye-catching.
3. Optical Effect
Moonstone
Moonstone is a gemstone which is famous worldwide for showing a unique optical effect which is called as adularescence. During this effect a soft glowing light band appears to float beneath the surface of the gemstone, which makes it attractive.
Rainbow Moonstone
On the other hand the rainbow moonstone Shows labradorescence. During this optical effect a bright and colorful flash of light is visible, when the gem is being viewed from different angles.
4. Astrological Significance
Moonstone
Moonstone is directly linked with the Moon (Chandra) and is widely used in Vedic astrology. It is considered a substitute for Pearl.
Rainbow Moonstone
Rainbow Moonstone is more commonly used in crystal healing and spiritual practices rather than traditional astrology.
5. Energy and Healing Properties
Moonstone
An ordinaly Moonstone provides calming and nurturing energy to the wearer. This gemstone is considered ideal for the individuals looking for emotional healing, peace, and stability.
Rainbow Moonstone
On the other hand, Rainbow Moonstone offers protective and uplifting energy. It enhances intuition and supports spiritual transformation.
6. Price and Value
Moonstone
Moonstone price in India usually ranges between Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000 per carat. However, it must be noted that, these prices may vary according to the cut, clarity, carat weight, origin and certification of the gem..
Rainbow Moonstone
In comparison to the moonstone, Rainbow Moonstone is generally more affordable. This gemstone comes in a price ranging between Rs. 200 to Rs. 2,000 per carat.
7. Use of gemstones
Moonstone
Moonstone is commonly used in making all types of fashionable and astrological rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Rainbow Moonstone
Rainbow Moonstone is commonly used in making designer and bohemian jewelry due to its colorful shine.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing a moonstone is not easy; therefore, you should consider the following points before choosing one:
Buy A Moonstone If:
You should buy a moonstone if you are looking for a gemstone for astrological purposes. In addition to this, gemstones are also considered best for emotional healing. It is best suited for people seeking peace, balance, and stability in life.
Buy A Rainbow Moonstone If:
You should buy a rainbow moonstone if you prefer a stylish gemstone with strong visual appeal. This gemstone is best for the ideal for people who want to enhance their creativity, intuition, and protection.
Important Buying Tips
Before buying an original moonstone, you should keep the following points in mind:
Check Authenticity
Before buying any of these two gemstones, you should first ensure that the gemstone is natural and not synthetic or glass-filled. The reason behind this is that fake, treated, or synthetic gemstones don’t provide any astrological benefits.
Observe the Glow
It must be kept in mind that a good quality Moonstone generally displays a unique soft blue sheen, while Rainbow Moonstone should show vibrant flashes.
Certification Matters
Before buying any gemstone, you should ask for the certification of the gemstone. The gemstone certificate should be acquired from trusted gemstone labs such as IGI, ITLGJ, GSI, etc., to confirm its authenticity. In addition to this, you should buy gems only from a trusted source like RashiRatanBhagya, which is India’s leading gemstone company with over 40 years of experience in gems and rudraksha.
Conclusion
Although Moonstone and Rainbow Moonstone appear quite alike when viewed, they are two very different stones in their structure, external characteristics, and appropriate application. Moonstone is known to be classic, soothing, and closely linked to astrology, whereas Rainbow Moonstone is known to be a modern gemstone and is used in various types of crystal healing practises worldwide. There is no "right" answer to whether you should select Moonstone or Rainbow Moonstone, but instead it comes down to your intentions of seeking emotional harmony or creative energy. Both have their own respective favourites and appeals, making them a wonderful addition to your collection.
