6.94 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This listing presents one translucent oval orange moonstone, 6.94 carats, with precise dimensions of 14.00 x 10.03 x 6.62 mm, cut as a classical cabochon, sourced from Ceylon Sri Lanka, with no enhancement. The cabochon profile is a high to medium dome that provides even light diffusion across the face of the gem, a geometry that emphasizes the internal light scattering typical of moonstone while maintaining a pleasing table to girdle ratio for secure mounting. Color is described as intense in saturation, a warm peach to honey orange that remains consistent across viewing angles, and the translucency permits a soft internal glow rather than a mirror like reflectivity. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when observed at eye level, with only minor internal features that do not detract from the overall uniform field of color or the surface appearance, and polish is excellent yielding smooth, near mirror finish on the dome and a clean, well defined girdle edge.

Cutting and lapidary technique are essential to the optical performance of feldspathic moonstone, and this piece demonstrates careful preform and final shaping to maximize adularescence and color saturation. The cabochon has been oriented so that the lamellar microstructure responsible for the adularescent sheen lies parallel to the domed face, which produces a diffuse, pearl like shimmer rather than a narrow band. The lapidary removed cleavage risk by working at conservative pressures and utilizing stepwise grinding followed by progressively finer laps, with the final polish applied using low grit abrasives suited to feldspar, yielding an excellent surface without burnishing. Optical constants for moonstone family feldspars are relevant to interpretation, refractive index approximately 1.518 to 1.526, specific gravity approximately 2.56, and very low birefringence that does not interfere with the soft sheen. Hardness commonly reported near 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and the presence of two directions of cleavage in feldspar require thoughtful handling and setting to avoid edge chipping, recommendations that follow.

For setting and design, the oval cabochon profile and its depth of 6.62 mm make it ideal for bezel settings that protect the girdle and distribute mechanical stress away from cleavage directions, while also presenting the maximum face for the stone s translucency and color. A carefully engineered bezel with slight elevation to accommodate the dome will secure the stone without cutting into the girdle, preserving the integrity of the cabochon and allowing light to enter the base when desired. For designers who prefer open back mounts, a thin bezel or gallery that leaves a small opening under the stone can increase apparent brightness, though this should be balanced against the increased vulnerability of feldspar to impact. The oval outline at 14.00 by 10.03 mm is a versatile size that reads well in rings and pendants, and the nearly symmetrical length to width ratio facilitates predictable alignment in typical prong or bezel templates while maintaining stable weight distribution for jewelry that is subject to daily wear.

Summary technical data for buyers from The Natural Gemstone Company follows for easy reference, one translucent orange moonstone, weight 6.94 carats, shape oval, dimensions 14.00 x 10.03 x 6.62 mm, cut cabochon with a high to medium dome, clarity very slightly included at eye level, color intense orange with warm peach undertones, polish excellent, enhancement none, origin Ceylon Sri Lanka. The piece exhibits proper lapidary orientation of adularescent planes and has been finished to industry standards for cabochon feldspar, delivering a combination of saturated color and soft internal glow that benefits from protective mounting. If you require additional technical imagery such as high magnification inclusion maps, orientation photomicrographs, or recommendations for jeweler tolerances when fabricating a bezel or gallery to best preserve and display this material, The Natural Gemstone Company can provide further details and collaboration to ensure optimal results.