June babies are lucky—they have three different birthstones to choose from: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone! While I love a good set of pearls, and alexandrite is quite stunning, moonstone is my preferred stone to use. Its energy feels the most relatable and energetically supportive of the three.
The history and lore of the moonstone dates back to the times of the ancient Romans and Pliny the Elder. While these days we tend to associate Pliny with a sought-after craft beer, he is also known for being a naturalist and author (and incorporating both fact and fiction into his scientific claims). One reference I found states that Pliny “coined the term moonstone because he believed the stone’s shimmery appearance shifted with the phases of the moon.”* Much like Pliny, the factual references are slim here, so I’ll let you decide for yourself.
Moonstone is comprised of layers upon layers of feldspar, which give it the shimmery look Pliny was referring to. As you shift a moonstone under the light, the light reflects in shimmery waves, much like moonlight shining through the clouds. Through this visual association, it was commonly believed that moonstones were formed from frozen moonbeams.
Both Roman and Indian legends tied moonstones in with their lunar deities. Diana, the Roman goddess of the moon, wore a moonstone pendant, and Chandra Sekhara, India’s moon god, had a moonstone set into his forehead, his name in fact translating to “person who wears the moon.” In both cultures, moonstones were known for promoting love and wisdom.
Moonstone draws on the calming and intuitive energy of the moon. Its cyclical energy means it is both a stone of new beginnings as well as natural endings. It is a balancing stone: yin and yang, masculine and feminine, life and death. It is especially balancing to the female reproductive system. Moonstone teaches us that life is about change, and to flow in and out with the tides, while keeping us protected on our journey.
I will be releasing my ready-to-wear BirthStar Jewelry soon—Join My Circle to stay up to date!