Moonstone
/ˈmuːn.stoʊn/noun
A translucent feldspar gemstone displaying a floating, moonlike sheen or bluish glow.
Did you know?The gemstone’s shifting glow is called adularescence, and its association with lunar cycles helped make it a favorite in magical and astrological traditions.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*meh₁-
“To measure; the ancient root associated with the Moon’s measured cycles and later words such as month.”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*steyh₂-
“To stand; the root traditionally connected with Germanic words for stone and standing.”
Old English
Old English
mōna + stān
“Moon + stone; a transparent or luminous stone described through its resemblance to the Moon.”
Middle English
Middle English
mōnston
“A compound meaning “moon stone,” used for a stone believed to resemble or reflect moonlight.”
18th Century
English
moonstone
“A recognized name for a feldspar gemstone noted for its opalescent or bluish internal sheen.”
Modern English
English
moonstone
“A feldspar gemstone whose billowing internal light is known as adularescence.”