Moonstone – The Enigmatic Gem of Lunar Mystique and Romance

Moonstone, a captivating variety of feldspar, enchants with its pearly and opalescent luster, known as adularescence. This phenomenon creates a soft, billowy glow reminiscent of moonlight dancing on water. Moonstone forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, with significant deposits found in Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, and Madagascar. Its colors range from milky whites and soft grays to peach, blue, and even rainbow hues, each variant offering a unique visual allure.

Etymology

The name “moonstone” derives from its moon-like sheen. In some traditions, it’s also called “hecatolite,” linking it to the Greek goddess Hecate. Other names are Adularia, Water Opal, Fish-Eye Stone.

Moonstone belongs to the feldspar group, closely related to: Labradorite: Known for its vibrant play of colors, called labradorescence. Sunstone: Distinguished by its glittery aventurescence, reminiscent of sunlight.These stones share a common lineage but each exhibits distinct optical phenomena.

Cosmic Junction

Moonstone has been steeped in myth and legend across various cultures. The Romans believed it was formed from solidified moonbeams and associated it with their moon goddess, Diana, thinking it could bestow love, wisdom, and good fortune upon its wearer.

In Hindu mythology, moonstone was considered sacred, believed to be composed of moonbeams. Legends suggested that placing a moonstone in one’s mouth during a full moon could reveal the future.

Known as the “Traveler’s Stone,” moonstone was thought to protect those who journeyed at night, especially under the moon’s light. Ancient mariners believed it would safeguard them over water.

In metaphysical practices, moonstone is linked to the crown and third-eye chakras, enhancing intuition, promoting inspiration, and fostering emotional balance. It’s often associated with the zodiac signs Cancer and Scorpio, resonating with their deep emotional currents and connection to lunar energies.

Stainless Steel | 18k PVD Gold Finish

Material Composition: The base material of these earrings includes high-grade stainless steel, commonly types 304 or 316L, known for excellent corrosion resistance and hypoallergenic qualities. Over this, an 18k Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) gold finish is applied, giving the appearance of real gold while enhancing durability.

Manufacturing Process:

• Material Selection: Opt for high-quality stainless steel for the base, which ensures longevity and resistance to tarnishing.
• PVD Coating Preparation: The stainless steel is cleaned and prepared for the PVD process to ensure adhesion of the gold layer.
• PVD Application: Gold atoms are vaporized in a vacuum chamber and deposited onto the steel in a process that bonds the gold at an atomic level, creating a hard, durable gold coating.
• Cutting & Shaping: After coating, the steel is cut and shaped into the desired forms, like fish/french hooks for earrings.
• Polishing & Finishing: The gold-coated steel is polished to enhance the finish’s luster and smoothness.
• Quality Control: Each piece is checked for uniformity of the gold layer, adherence to jewelry standards, and overall integrity.

Why They Don’t Oxidize

The stainless steel base forms a protective chromium oxide layer which prevents rust. The PVD gold coating adds another layer of protection, making the jewelry highly resistant to oxidation, even in humid or salty environments.

Magnetic Properties

Similar to plain stainless steel, the 18k PVD gold finish does not alter the magnetic properties significantly. The stainless steel might still have slight magnetic qualities based on its composition or processing, but this is not affected by the PVD layer.

Hypoallergenic Assurance

The gold PVD coating further seals the nickel content within the stainless steel, reducing the likelihood of skin reactions. This combination ensures that the earrings are suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies to base metals.