29.22 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This listing describes one translucent white moonstone, oval in outline, weighing 29.22 carats and precisely measured at 25.05 by 18.03 by 8.89 millimeters. The stone has been fashioned as a cabochon, with an even domed profile and a controlled pavilion thickness that supports strong adularescent response. The length to width ratio of approximately 1.39 is within the classic parameters for an elegant oval cabochon, offering balanced proportions for both bezel and open-prong settings. Clarity is graded as very very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, indicating that internal features are extremely minor and do not detract from surface appearance under normal inspection. The body color intensity is colorless, producing a clean translucent field that allows the adularescence to present with clarity. Polish is graded excellent, denoting a fully reflective lap finish with minimal surface aberrations, and the stone is untreated, with no thermal, dye, or surface diffusion enhancements. Origin is Ceylon, Sri Lanka, a well-documented source for high-quality feldspathic moonstones.

From a gemological standpoint, this specimen is a potassium feldspar, an orthoclase-albite intergrowth that produces adularescence through light scattering from thin, repeated albite lamellae. The cabochon cut maximizes this optical effect by presenting a continuous curved surface so incident light can interact with the internal layering over a wide range of angles. The dome height, represented by the 8.89 mm thickness, is substantial enough to exhibit a pronounced sheen without sacrificing stability; a high dome is often preferred for moonstone because it allows multiple internal lamellae to contribute to a layered, chatoyant glow. Optical behavior in this piece will typically present as a soft, floating schiller that can range from white to pale blue tones depending on viewing angle and light source. The excellent polish minimizes surface diffusion and scattering losses, preserving the purity of adularescence and enabling a crisp, well-defined band of light across the dome when properly oriented.

Clarity considerations are technical and important for both aesthetic evaluation and setting decisions. The very very slightly included grade, assessed at eye level, indicates that the stone contains only minute internal irregularities such as fine platelets, barely perceptible exsolution features, or isolated pinpoint inclusions. These features in moonstone are often responsible for the adularescent effect rather than detracting from it, because the internal lamellar structure is the mechanism producing the sheen. Because inclusions are minimal, this moonstone offers a clean translucency and a visually expansive field, advantageous for designs that showcase the full dome. Structural integrity is supported by the cabochon thickness, but as feldspars have perfect cleavage parallel to certain crystallographic directions, careful attention to setting is recommended to avoid edge stress. The absence of enhancement confirms the internal lamellar structure is natural and intact, which is a desirable attribute for connoisseurs and collectors who prioritize untreated provenance and original optical characteristics.

From the perspective of mounting, design, and care, this oval cabochon is versatile and well suited to high-profile pendants, solitaire rings with protective bezels, and artful statement brooches where the dome can be oriented to best catch light. Bezel settings are preferred to protect the perimeter, whereas partial bezels or low-profile prongs may be acceptable if care is taken to cushion the girdle and avoid pressure along cleavage planes. Given its substantial carat weight and measured dimensions, the stone will read large on the finger or as a pendant focal point, and the 8.89 mm dome provides both visual depth and a tactile presence. For longevity, avoid ultrasonic cleaning and steam cleaning due to potential internal stress and cleavage sensitivity, and recommend gentle warm soapy water and soft brushes for routine maintenance. The provenance from Ceylon situates this moonstone within a tradition of Sri Lankan feldspathes prized for their clean bodies and attractive adularescence. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the described attributes and offers additional gemological documentation on request, including high-resolution images from multiple angles and orientation guidance to optimize adularescent display for any bespoke mounting or design.