16.15 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This listing presents a single, translucent peach moonstone weighing 16.15 carats, cut into an oval cabochon with exact dimensions of 18.82 by 14.69 by 8.14 millimeters, originating from Ceylon Sri Lanka. The cabochon form emphasizes the gemology of moonstone, prioritizing a smooth, domed surface over faceting to display adularescence and internal sheen. Clarity is graded as very very slightly included at eye level, which for moonstone typically denotes minute planar or plate like inclusions and occasional tiny fluid pockets that do not disrupt the overall visual field. Color is described as medium intensity peach, a soft warm tone that balances saturation with translucency to allow internal light diffusion, and the piece has received an excellent polish, ensuring minimal surface aberrations and a reflective uniformity across the dome. No treatments or enhancements have been applied, and the profile and provenance are documented by The Natural Gemstone Company to reflect natural origin and no enhancement.

From a mineralogical and optical standpoint this specimen exhibits the classic feldspar intergrowth responsible for moonstone adularescence, where alternating lamellar layers of orthoclase and albite scatter incident light to produce a floating, soft sheen. The translucency level is high enough to permit diffuse light transmission, while the medium color intensity maintains body color without suppressing the adularescent effect. The dome height at 8.14 millimeters provides a substantial curvature, which is advantageous for generating a broad, mobile sheen band when the stone is rotated under light. The very very slightly included grade indicates that inclusions are confined to micro structural features rather than fractures, therefore light scattering remains coherent and directional, preserving the quality of the sheen. Observed under both diffuse and directional lighting, the stone displays a consistent peach tone with a subtle, slightly opalescent shimmer that is most pronounced across the central axis of the oval facing.

The cutting and finishing of this cabochon reflect considered lapidary technique, focusing on symmetry, dome profile, and surface continuity, which are critical for maximizing moonstone optical performance. The oval outline is proportioned to the length and width dimensions to allow for a centered adularescent band, while the dome curvature is optimized to support a broad, even reflection rather than a narrow hotspot, which can occur in overly high or asymmetric domes. Polishing was completed through graduated abrasives and fine felt or leather laps with progressively finer diamond or oxide compounds, culminating in an excellent polish that minimizes micro scratches and polish laps. Edge rounding and girdle consistency were maintained to facilitate secure bezel seating in jewelry fabrication, and the stone was evaluated for internal zoning and extinct particulates, with color distribution noted as uniform to slightly clouded in peripheral areas, a characteristic that complements the translucent body and enhances the soft peach appeal.

For jewelers and connoisseurs considering setting and care, this 16.15 carat oval cabochon presents versatile design opportunities, particularly in bezel set rings, pendants, and brooches that benefit from a protective rim and close metal contact to secure the stone. The substantial thickness lends itself to low profile bezel settings that protect the dome while allowing the adularescent band to remain visible through the top aperture. Metals with warm tones such as 18 karat yellow or rose gold will harmonize with the peach body color, while white metals will create a more contemporary contrast. Mounting should account for the 8.14 millimeter height to ensure appropriate seat depth and prong clearance if adapted to a prong style, with attention to avoiding stress points along the girdle during setting. Cleaning is recommended with warm water and mild detergent, using a soft brush, followed by immediate drying, avoiding ultrasonic and steam cleaners unless the stone is certified to withstand such conditions, and refraining from chemical exposure and prolonged thermal fluctuation. The Natural Gemstone Company certifies the natural origin of this moonstone from Ceylon Sri Lanka and confirms no enhancement, and we can provide additional imaging, gemological documentation, and custom mounting advice upon request, ensuring that this peach moonstone can be integrated into a finished piece with technical accuracy and aesthetic fidelity.