1.96 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Madagascar

One beautiful translucent 1.96 carat round blue flash moonstone, meticulously shaped into a classic cabochon, presents a refined balance of size and optical performance. The gem measures 8.28 by 8.16 by 4.37 millimeters, dimensions that translate to a pleasing round presence suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. This specimen comes from Madagascar, a well-regarded source for quality moonstones, and arrives to you with no enhancement, preserving its natural origin and internal structure. At The Natural Gemstone Company we note the medium light color intensity and an excellent polish, attributes that together allow the stone’s characteristic adularescence to show clearly across the dome while maintaining a soft, transparent body color that complements both cool and warm metal settings.

The defining visual feature of this moonstone is its blue flash adularescence, the luminous sheen that appears to float beneath the surface. Scientifically, this phenomenon arises from the interaction of light with lamellar intergrowths of orthoclase and albite, microscopic layering that scatters light and produces the silvery or blue sheen known as adularescence. In this particular stone the layering is oriented and fine enough to generate a pronounced blue flash that shifts with movement, a quality prized by connoisseurs because it provides liveliness and a dynamic interplay with ambient light. The cabochon cut, with its well-proportioned dome and excellent polish, is intentionally selected to maximize this effect. A high dome allows broader viewing angles for the flash, while excellent polish reduces surface scattering and helps maintain the clarity and definition of the internal sheen.

Clarity is described as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, a practical and meaningful assessment for an educated buyer. Moonstones commonly contain growth lines, microscopic platelets, thin exsolution lamellae, and occasional pinpoint mineral inclusions or tiny fluid-filled cavities. In this moonstone those inclusions are minor and do not interfere with the overall adularescence or transparency; instead they act as natural identifiers, like a fingerprint, confirming its authenticity and geological history. Inclusions in moonstone are not merely tolerable, they are often desirable, providing unique patterns and internal character that differentiate one cabochon from another. When observed under magnification these internal features can also corroborate the Madagascar origin, since geographic variations in layering thickness and inclusion types are known to gemologists and can assist provenance assessments.

From a grading and valuation perspective, several factors combine to make this specimen noteworthy. The weight of 1.96 carats in a round cabochon showing a pronounced blue flash is relatively uncommon, as larger moonstones with strong, centered adularescence become progressively rarer. The medium light body color improves the visibility of the blue sheen without overwhelming it, and the very slightly included clarity means eye-visible blemishes or inclusions are minimal, preserving visual purity. The excellent polish enhances luster and tactile quality, reducing the need for further finishing when setting. Importantly for collectors and designers, this moonstone has received no enhancement; it is entirely natural, which typically increases its market desirability compared with heat-treated or diffusion-treated alternatives. Madagascar remains a respected source, and stones from that region are often sought after for their balance of translucency, sheen, and structural quality.

Practical considerations for use, care, and selection are straightforward. The dimensions and weight make this gem ideal as a focal point in a ring, pendant, or statement pair of earrings, and the round cabochon profile fits classic bezel and prong settings that protect the edges and show the dome to best advantage. Because moonstone is a member of the feldspar family, it requires a degree of care relative to harder gemstones; avoid harsh knocks, prolonged exposure to strong heat and ultrasonics, and chemical cleaners that could harm the surface. Gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is recommended. At The Natural Gemstone Company we evaluate each gem in hand to confirm the description provided, focusing on optical performance, measurements, and the natural inclusion pattern that serves as the gem’s internal signature. For an educated buyer seeking a naturally untreated Madagascar blue flash moonstone with excellent polish, well-centered adularescence, and minimal eye-visible inclusions, this 1.96 carat round cabochon represents a combination of geological interest and wearable elegance that performs well both as a collector piece and as the central element of a refined jewelry design.