Moonstone

Moonstone is a pale type of feldspar, of the variety known as "adularia". It is marked (and named for) the mysterious shimmer that can be seen as the stone is moved. It is the birthstone for the month of June, and the stone traditionally given in celebration of the 13th anniversary of one's marriage.

Appearance
Moonstones from Sri Lanka shimmer pale blue on an almost transparent background, while moonstones from India shimmer in many colors of both light and shadow against a beige, green, orange, or brown background.

History
According to Hindu and Roman mythology, moonstone is made of solidified moonbeams, and many cultures associate the moonstone with lunar energies and lunar deities.

A great deal of mystique surrounds the moonstone. In India, it is referred to as a "dream stone", and it is believed that wearing one will give the bearer beautiful dreams. In Arabic countries, moonstone is a symbol of fertility, and many women wear moonstones sewn out of sight in their clothing.

Moonstone was very popular in Art Nouveau jewelry of the early 20th century, being used in stickpins, cufflinks, rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and necklaces. It experienced a resurgence in popularity in the sixties with the "flower child" movement.

Magickal Properties
Moonstone is sacred to Selene, Artemis, and Nyx.

Moonstone is known as the Traveler's Stone, and is particularly protective towards those who travel at night, especially when the moon is shining. Moonstone also aids in opening the heart to positive feeling as the reception of love. It is an excellent stone for a first love or a new relationship. It is also the stone of love and eroticism, as well as the ultimate fertility stone.

Healing Properties
Moonstone is a powerful balancing and attunement stone in regards to the natural rhythms of one's body. It is especially effective in women, promoting fertility, easing pregnancy and childbirth, and balances the hormonal systems, alleviating menstrual and menopausal issues.

Moonstone has many calming, soothing qualities, and it enhances the intuitive portion of the mind. For women, carrying or wearing a moonstone can aid in unlocking one's clairvoyant abilities, and in men it promotes emotional balance and promote nonlinear thinking.

As an Air stone, moonstone naturally opens the mind to hopes, dreams, inspiration, and insight.