Moonstone, In Light and Legend

For centuries, moonstone has captivated hearts with its soft, glowing sheen—an ethereal beauty that seems to hold a piece of the night sky. In our craft, some stones feel like stories—and moonstone tells one of the oldest.

Whether you’re drawn to its shimmering appearance or its deep-rooted symbolism, moonstone has a legacy worth exploring.

Moonstone (or Hecatolite) is a Feldspar mineral, the same family as the Labradorite.

Ancient Origins and Mythical Beliefs

Moonstone’s connection to the moon isn’t just in name—it’s woven into the myths and legends of ancient civilizations. In ancient Rome, moonstone was believed to be formed from moonlight itself. Roman natural historian Pliny the Elder even wrote that its appearance changed with the phases of the moon. Both the Romans and Greeks associated it with their lunar goddesses—Diana and Selene, respectively—linking the gem to divine femininity, protection, and intuition.

Among the Celts, moonstone was connected to Cerridwen, the goddess of inspiration, transformation, and knowledge. They believed it carried mystical insight and spiritual guidance, making it a powerful symbol in their rituals and storytelling.

In India, moonstone holds sacred significance and has been used for centuries in traditional jewelry. Hindu mythology considered it a sacred and magical gem, believed to be embedded with the energy of the moon goddess. It was often given as a wedding gift, symbolizing love and new beginnings.

Across Asia and the Middle East, moonstone was thought to bring good fortune, protect travelers, and enhance intuition. It was often worn as a talisman, especially during nighttime journeys or spiritual rituals.

Since earliest times, it has been associated with the magic of the moon

A Gemstone of the Art Nouveau Era

While moonstone has always had a mystical allure, it reached a new level of popularity in the early 20th century, during the Art Nouveau movement. Designers like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany embraced moonstone for its soft, dreamlike glow—perfect for the fluid, nature-inspired designs of the time.

Moonstone’s iridescent quality, known as adularescence, gave jewelry a magical, almost living quality that aligned perfectly with the organic aesthetics of Art Nouveau.

“Papillons et Chauves-souris”, an enamel, moonstone and gold pocket watch by René Lalique, circa 1899-1900.

A Modern Classic

Today, moonstone is treasured not only for its beauty but also for the feelings it evokes—calm, balance, and emotional healing.

In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and mass-produced, moonstone reminds us of a slower, more thoughtful connection to the earth and its cycles. It carries a timeless elegance that speaks to both past and present.