Where is Peach Moonstone found?
Orthoclase Feldspar (variety Moonstone)
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appPeach Moonstone occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Peach Moonstone
Sri Lanka
Historically a primary source of high-quality moonstone, including some with peachy hues, found in alluvial deposits and pegmatites.
India
Significant producer of moonstone, including peach varieties, often from pegmatite occurrences.
Madagascar
Known for various feldspar varieties, including moonstone with diverse colors, found in pegmatitic intrusions.
Myanmar (Burma)
Produces moonstone from pegmatite and alluvial deposits.
Tanzania
Emerging source for various gemstones, including moonstone.
United States (e.g., Virginia, Pennsylvania)
Local occurrences of orthoclase feldspar, some exhibiting moonstone characteristics, in pegmatites.
Collecting tips
- Look for Adularescence. The most distinctive feature is the adularescence. Rotate the specimen under a light source to observe the characteristic 'moon-like' sheen that glides across the surface. Without this, it's just orthoclase.
- Examine Color and Transparency. Seek out specimens with a warm peach, orange-pink, or creamy orange body color. It should be translucent to semi-transparent, allowing light to pass through to some extent.
- Check for Cleavage. Observe the characteristic two directions of perfect cleavage at nearly 90 degrees, which is typical for feldspar minerals. This can be seen on fractured surfaces.
- Consider Geological Context. Search in areas known for pegmatites, granitic intrusions, or hydrothermal veins, as these are common environments for moonstone formation.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Peach, orange-pink, creamy orange with adularescence
- Luster:
- Vitreous to pearly
- Streak:
- White
Explore Peach Moonstone
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.