2.90 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Madagascar

This exceptional translucent 2.90 carat round blue flash moonstone measures 9.36 by 9.37 by 4.58 millimeters, and it is presented as a classic cabochon to maximize adularescence. The stone displays a cool, silvery blue flash that moves across the dome as light and perspective change, a phenomenon prized by collectors and connoisseurs. At this size and shape, moonstones showing a strong, even blue flash are decidedly rare, because most specimens of this type are either smaller or exhibit weaker, patchy flashes. The cabochon cut and excellent polish of this piece ensure a smooth dome and uninterrupted light play, allowing the blue sheen to appear vivid and centralized. For buyers accustomed to evaluating gemstones by both sight and data, these dimensions and weight place this moonstone in a category that is much less commonly encountered in the market, and that rarity translates directly into desirability and long term value.

From a technical grading perspective this moonstone carries a clarity grade of very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, and a medium light body color intensity, with no enhancements recorded. The very slightly included assessment means that minute internal features may be present, but they do not detract from the primary visual appeal or from the stone's optical performance, and are not readily apparent without careful inspection. The medium light body color is an advantage for adularescence, since a body that is too dark can mute the blue sheen, and a body that is too pale can disperse it, so this stone strikes a balance that allows the blue flash to read strongly against a clean translucent matrix. Moonstone is a sodium potassium feldspar that produces adularescence through light scattering from lamellar intergrowths. The cabochon cut is the optimal shape to reveal this effect, and the excellent polish confirms professional lapidary work that preserves the dome and reduces surface abrasions that could scatter light and diminish the flash. Importantly, this gem has not undergone any enhancements, so the color and optical properties are entirely natural, which is a key consideration for educated purchasers seeking provenance and integrity in their acquisitions.

The origin of this moonstone is Madagascar, a source that has gained recognition for producing attractive blue flash material alongside more familiar localities. While Sri Lanka is historically renowned for the finest blue adularescence, high quality Madagascar material has become increasingly prized because it can offer pronounced blue flashes in sizes that are less common from other locations. A 2.90 carat round moonstone with this degree of centralized blue sheen is notably scarce compared to the many smaller or weaker examples typically available, making it a strong candidate for a signature jewelry piece or for collectors who prioritize rarity and optical purity. For practical considerations, moonstone ranks around 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, so thoughtful design and protective settings are recommended for daily wear pieces to minimize abrasion and impact. The generous dimensions of this cabochon give designers latitude to create substantial rings, pendants, or bespoke pieces that showcase the stone without compromising the dome geometry that produces the adularescence.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we document each aspect of a gem so educated buyers can make informed decisions, and this moonstone is accompanied by full disclosure of weight, measurements, clarity, polish, cut, treatment history, and origin. The combination of a near 3 carat weight, precise round shape, excellent polish, eye level clarity described as very slightly included, and natural blue flash from Madagascar positions this moonstone as a rare and collectible specimen. For investors and collectors who understand how size, color intensity, and optical phenomena interact to create premium examples in feldspar gemology, this stone represents both aesthetic appeal and market distinction. We recommend viewing the stone under directional lighting to appreciate the full adularescence, and we can assist with recommendations for mounting styles that protect the gem while allowing the blue flash to remain the focal point. Purchasing through The Natural Gemstone Company ensures transparent provenance and meticulous handling, attributes that educated buyers value as much as the gem itself.