Orthoclase is a feldspar mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic system and is one of the most common of all minerals. It has a hardness of about 6 and a specific gravity between 2.55 and 2.75. Orthoclase have a vitreous luster and resemble other feldspar minerals in crystal habit, methods of twining, and especially by having cleavage surfaces inclined to each other at an angle of 90 degrees, or nearly so. It is often white, gray or flesh-red in color and sometimes occurs as colorless crystals. All feldspars weather readily under the action of both atmospheric agencies and acidic surface waters, yielding a form of clay known as kaolin. Orthoclase is extensively used in the production of porcelain and glass.

Adularia

A translucent to transparent variety of orthoclase, a feldspar mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic system and is one of the most common of all minerals. It has a hardness of about 6 and a specific gravity between 2.55 and 2.75. Orthoclase have a vitreous luster and resemble other feldspar minerals in crystal habit, methods of twining, and especially by having cleavage surfaces inclined to each other at an angle of 90 degrees, or nearly so. All feldspars weather readily under the action of both atmospheric agencies and acidic surface waters, yielding a form of clay known as kaolin.

Magic & Myth

Adularia or the moonstone is associated with the moon and was the stone of the goddess Diana. The most powerful time to use the moonstone is in a full moon.

It has been worn as an amulet to bring good emotions to the wearer, while protecting those of a sensitive nature. It can reunite lovers who have quarreled. Moonstone is also considered a good luck stone.

Adularia is a very personal stone. It is a reflection of the person who owns it. It does not add or detract, only shows how it is. This is why the moonstone is said to perceive that which "is". Moonstone is an excellent stone to use in meditation to understand oneself. Placing it in the moonlight of a moon reaching its fullness, not a full or waning moon, can revitalize it. This is a particularly good gemstone for women. It is a good stone for young women or teenagers.