Labradorite and Moonstone share the same mineral family—feldspar—and a certain ethereal beauty, but they differ in appearance, origin, and energy. Both are prized for their shimmering optical effects, yet each tells its own story in color and meaning. 

Appearance & Optical Effects

Labradorite  

  • Base color: Gray, dark gray, black, or sometimes pale. 
  • Optical effect: Labradorescence—a brilliant play of color that can include blue, green, gold, orange, or even purple, flashing across the surface when viewed at certain angles. 
  • Overall look: Mystical, bold, and often dramatic. 

Moonstone  

  • Base color: White, cream, peach, gray, or even brown. 
  • Optical effect: Adularescence—a soft, glowing sheen (often blue or white) that floats beneath the surface, like moonlight in water. 
  • Overall look: Soft, dreamy, and romantic. 

Origins

  • Labradorite: First discovered in Labrador, Canada, but now sourced from Madagascar, Finland (Spectrolite), Russia, and the U.S. 
  • Moonstone: Mined in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania, with each location producing slightly different hues. 

Historical & Cultural Associations

  • Labradorite: Linked to Inuit legends of the Aurora Borealis and considered a stone of magic and transformation. Historically valued by shamans and spiritual seekers. 
  • Moonstone: Associated with lunar deities and feminine energy in many cultures, including India and Rome, where it was believed to be solidified moonlight. 

Metaphysical Meanings

Labradorite  

  • Awakens intuition and psychic ability. 
  • Acts as a protective shield for the aura. 
  • Supports personal transformation and perseverance. 

Moonstone  

  • Encourages emotional healing and self-reflection. 
  • Balances feminine and masculine energies. 
  • Strengthens intuition while promoting calm and emotional stability. 

Varieties

  • Labradorite: Includes Spectrolite (intense rainbow colors), Golden Labradorite, and White/Rainbow Labradorite (a pale form with multi-colored flashes). 
  • Moonstone: Includes Rainbow Moonstone (white with blue or rainbow flashes), Peach Moonstone, Gray Moonstone, and Cat’s Eye Moonstone. 

Care Tips for Both Stones

  • Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. 
  • Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemicals. 
  • Store separately to prevent scratches, as both have a Mohs hardness of 6–6.5. 

Choosing Between Them

  • Choose Labradorite if you want bold flashes of color, a sense of mystery, and energy for transformation and protection. 
  • Choose Moonstone if you seek gentle beauty, emotional healing, and a deeper connection to intuition and lunar cycles. 

Fun Pairing Tip: Labradorite and Moonstone look beautiful together—one representing the cosmic mystery of the stars, the other the serene glow of the moon. Together, they create a balance of strength and softness in both appearance and energy.