8.30 Ct. Cabochon Moonstone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

One translucent, oval shaped grey moonstone, weighing 8.30 carats, is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, offering precise dimensions of 15.06 x 12.76 x 6.04 millimeters, cabochon cut, clarity evaluated as very slightly included at eye level, light color intensity, excellent polish, no enhancement, origin Ceylon Sri Lanka. The oval outline and moderately high dome are deliberately proportioned to balance visual surface area with depth of body color, enabling the stone to read as substantial in size while preserving an even internal glow. The cabochon form replaces faceted planes with a continuous curved surface, which in this specimen maximizes optical interplay between the submicroscopic feldspar lamellae and incident light. Presentation photographs demonstrate uniform curvature, consistent silhouette, and specular highlights that confirm the high quality of the lapidary finish supplied by our workshops.

From a cutting and material science perspective, this moonstone exhibits characteristics consistent with orthoclase albite intergrowths, where thin alternating layers scatter light to produce adularescence. The cabochon design, with a 6.04 millimeter thickness at the apex, is an intentional technical choice to amplify the internal scattering without overwhelming translucency. A shallower dome would reduce the path length of light within the stone and mute the sheen, whereas a significantly taller dome could overemphasize body translucency and complicate setting profiles for jewelry. The oval geometry at 15.06 by 12.76 millimeters offers a length to width ratio that is visually balanced, suitable for traditional ring orientations as well as pendant layouts, and allows the adularescent band to be oriented along the length for optimal play of light when mounted. The grey color is recorded as light intensity, which in moonstone terminology denotes a subtle, cool neutral ground that complements the silvery to bluish adularescent sheen when viewed under directional lighting.

Clarity assessment as very slightly included at eye level indicates that the gemologist observed minor inclusions that are visible under typical viewing conditions but do not compromise structural integrity or visual performance. In moonstone, such inclusions commonly present as minute platelets or oriented exsolution lines within the feldspar matrix, sometimes producing fine seriation that can actually enhance the shimmer by providing additional scattering interfaces. The excellent polish reported for this cabochon means the external surface is free of nicks and abrasions, delivering high luster and clean specular reflections, which is important because surface condition directly influences the apparent strength and uniformity of adularescence. The lapidary work shows a smoothly rounded apex, even shoulder transitions to the girdle area, and a symmetrical oval perimeter. These technical attributes ensure predictable light behavior and simplify precision setting in metalwork, allowing jewelers to gauge bezel wall height and prong placement with confidence.

As an untreated natural moonstone from Ceylon Sri Lanka with no enhancements, this specimen represents a purist option for designers and collectors who prioritize geological provenance and material authenticity. Ceylon has a historical reputation for producing moonstones with refined optical phenomena and stable material properties, and this piece fits that profile while remaining practical for everyday wear provided sensible care is taken. Recommended handling procedures include avoiding prolonged exposure to high heat and harsh chemical cleaners, refraining from ultrasonic cleaning where internal cleavage could be stressed, and securing the stone in protective settings when used in rings subject to impact. For design considerations, the stone integrates well with white metals to accentuate silvery sheen, and with pale yellow metals to introduce a warmer contrast, while bezel settings are advised for maximum protection of the domed surface. The Natural Gemstone Company can provide additional technical documentation and high resolution imagery upon request, and our gemology team is available to discuss bespoke mounting options, certification pathways, and quantity availability for design programs.