one of the more common stones used in the pagan community. In ancient times moonstone was called selenitis. also called a traveler's stone as it was considered a good luck and protective stone for those who traveled. originally moonstone was considered a very iredescent form of Adularia which is a form of orthoclase which is a form of feldspar. Moonstone is a transparent, slightly iridescent, variety of feldspar. Several varieties of feldspar fall under this classification. it's all about the iridescence of the feldspar. While the biggest concern is iredescence many also base it on its translucence. if you get the perfect balance of the two it is as if you are gazing "into" the moon.

Moonstone comes in three colors,apricot/orange,ivory/white and grey. sometimes a combo of these three colors. The stones sold to the metaphysical community are for the most part lower to average grade which comes mostly from massive deposits (not crystalized). Top quality moonstone base on a creamy white color and high iredescence comes mostly from the crystal form and usually goes to jewelers and used by them

Precious moonstone has different colors with a blue hue to it.

Rainbow Moonstone: this is actually a white labradorite with bluish coloring to it.Labradorite is another feldspar but of a different composition. Rainbow: it displays all of the colors of the rainbow in one stone!! Moonstone is a meditation stone which stimulates, knowing, understanding and appreciation. It also brings to us self awareness and allows us to grow while learning balance. also aids in feminine issues.

ok moonstones are known to help in dreams and dream magics. Moonstone is a feminine stone that can greatly help women with period pains. Many people claim that the Moonstone also helps with fertility,pregnancy and childbearing. And for men it will help to stimulate their receptiveness and intuitiveness that can bring around emotional balance. This is a trustworthy stone that has been portrayed as the 'Mother Earth.' Just like the moon it has a magical, mystical quality when looked upon.Moonstone is subtle stone that breaks down the barrier. It helps to banish selfishness and negative emotions that hold us back, and bringing into the self a new understanding and psychic awareness. Use Moonstone for problem solving and decision making. Simply hold it in your left hand or place it under your pillow for guidance to life's questions.

In general moonstone is excellent for use in any moon magics,rituals and esbats.

Grey : Helps one accept other stone's powers by cleansing blocks. This can be hard to wear

Ivory/White: Helps one accept other stone's help through highlighting the others effects. When worn by itself is balances yin/yang.

apricot/orange: Helps one accept other stone's help by comforting you. This is less powerful than white - but helpful when one really needs a certain stone

cleansing the stone are in a variety of ways. some employ putting them in salt, other use both sun and moonlight. others will cleanse it during the waning moon. i usually cleanse it during the full moon.

and of course since this is a stone with moon energy it excellent for cancers. ones with a bluish tints are good for pisces.
it's MOH scale is a 6.