11.39 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This translucent grey moonstone presents as an elegant oval cabochon, weighing 11.39 carat, with calibrated dimensions of 13.76 by 11.46 by 9.49 millimeters, and originates from Ceylon, Sri Lanka. The piece exhibits a light color intensity, a smooth domed profile and an excellent polish that yields a clean surface luster under standard viewing conditions. Clarity is graded as very slightly included at eye level, indicating that minor natural inclusions are present but do not materially detract from the overall visual performance. No enhancement has been applied to this specimen, assuring buyers of its natural state and stability. The Natural Gemstone Company includes this item in our inventory for connoisseurs seeking a fine example of island sourced moonstone with measured proportions and precise cutting for optimized optical effect.

From a gemological perspective this moonstone is a feldspar, classically orthoclase with well developed albite lamellae responsible for the characteristic adularescence. Light scattering from microscopic, exsolved platelets produces a soft, floating sheen that becomes most apparent when the dome is oriented relative to the incident light. The cabochon cut used here is deliberately tailored to enhance that sheen, with a relatively high dome and symmetrical oval outline that concentrate the adularescent band toward the center of the table. The measured height of 9.49 millimeters supports a pronounced sub surface light train, allowing for a broad, coherent sheen rather than narrow streaking. Under close inspection the very slight inclusions manifest as minute platelet interruptions and rare isolated crystals, typical of natural moonstone from this locality, and these features contribute to depth and character without compromising transparency or the translucency that defines the gem.

The cutting and finishing quality demonstrate considered craftsmanship, the dome profile is evenly centered across both axes and the girdle transition to the base is smooth and consistent, minimizing light loss at the perimeter. The polish is rated excellent, producing a mirror like surface that maximizes the internal scattering effect while preserving a soft tactile feel appropriate to cabochon work. Because no enhancement was used the cutter relied on precise orientation of the rough to take advantage of the layered microstructure, cutting the long axis of the oval to align with the dominant lamellar orientation, a technique that yields a stronger adularescent flash when the gem is set. For mounting recommendations this specimen performs well in bezel settings that protect the high dome and distribute mechanical stress, particularly for rings where daily wear is anticipated. Open back settings can slightly increase transmission of light and may be considered for pendants or earrings where a lighter touch is desired, however caution is advised to avoid exposing the stone to sharp impacts and to ensure that the setting engages the girdle uniformly to prevent chipping.

Conservation notes and practical handling recommendations accompany this moonstone to preserve its visual integrity. On the Mohs scale moonstone typically registers near 6 to 6.5, therefore it is comparatively softer than many common jewelry gems, and it is prudent to avoid ultrasonic cleaning and steam treatments which can exacerbate micro fractures or mobilize internal fluids in treated stones, although this particular example has not been treated. Routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, followed by gentle drying on a soft cloth, is the preferred method, and storage in a soft lined compartment separate from harder stones will minimize abrasion. Provenance from Ceylon, Sri Lanka, combined with the gemological parameters and the absence of enhancements, make this 11.39 carat grey moonstone a compelling choice for collectors and designers seeking a natural, well executed cabochon with measurable optical performance. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the described attributes and invites qualified buyers to request additional viewing angles or magnified imagery to assess subtle inclusions and to confirm that the cutting orientation and dome profile meet specific design requirements.