How Much Do Moonstones Cost? The Ultimate 2025 Pricing Guide

Moonstones have captivated jewelry enthusiasts and gemstone collectors for centuries with their ethereal glow and mystical appearance. If you’re wondering “how much do moonstones cost,” you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will break down moonstone pricing, factors that affect their value, and where to find the best deals on these enchanting gems.

Understanding how much moonstones cost is essential whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, adding to your jewelry collection, or considering moonstone as an investment. The price of moonstones varies dramatically based on quality, origin, and size, making it crucial to understand what determines their value.

How Much Do Moonstones Cost: Current Market Pricing

The cost of moonstones varies significantly based on several factors, but here’s what you can generally expect to pay. When asking “how much do moonstones cost,” it’s important to understand that prices can range from affordable to premium depending on quality:

Basic Price Range:

• Commercial quality moonstones: $10-$50 per carat
• Mid-grade moonstones: $50-$200 per carat
• High-quality moonstones: $200-$1,000+ per carat

The wide price range reflects the dramatic differences in quality, color, and rarity among different moonstone varieties. While moonstones are generally considered affordable compared to precious stones like diamonds or rubies, exceptional specimens can command premium prices. Understanding how much moonstones cost helps you make informed purchasing decisions.

What Determines How Much Moonstones Cost?

1. Color and Adularescence Quality

The most significant factor affecting moonstone prices is the quality of adularescence – the characteristic shimmering effect that gives moonstones their magical appearance. Blue adularescence typically commands the highest prices, followed by white, cream, and other colors.

Color Price Hierarchy:

• Blue moonstone: Premium pricing ($100-$1,000+ per carat)
• White moonstone: $4-$75 per carat
• Cream/champagne moonstone: $10-$60 per carat
• Gray moonstone: $8-$40 per carat
• Green moonstone: $15-$80 per carat

2. Clarity and Transparency

Clear, transparent moonstones with strong adularescence are the most valuable. Stones with visible inclusions, cloudiness, or poor transparency will cost significantly less. The clearer the stone, the more pronounced the adularescent effect appears.

3. Size and Carat Weight

Like most gemstones, moonstone prices increase with size, though not always proportionally. Larger stones (over 5 carats) with good quality can see dramatic price increases due to their rarity.

4. Cut and Shape

Well-cut moonstones that maximize the adularescent effect command higher prices. Cabochon cuts are traditional and most popular, though faceted moonstones are also available. The quality of the cut directly impacts how well the stone displays its signature glow.

5. Origin

Moonstone origin can significantly impact pricing:

• Sri Lankan moonstones: Often considered the finest, commanding premium prices
• Indian moonstones: Good quality at moderate prices
• Madagascar moonstones: Excellent value for money
• Myanmar moonstones: Rare and expensive
• Australian moonstones: Variable pricing based on quality

Types of Moonstones and Their Costs

Rainbow Moonstone

Despite its name, rainbow moonstone is technically labradorite. It displays spectacular blue, green, and sometimes orange flashes. Prices range from $20-$300 per carat depending on the intensity of the color play.

Blue Moonstone

True blue moonstones from Sri Lanka are among the most expensive, often costing $200-$1,000+ per carat for high-quality specimens with strong blue adularescence.

Peach Moonstone

This variety displays warm peachy-orange tones and typically costs $15-$100 per carat, making it more affordable than blue varieties while still offering beautiful visual appeal.

Gray Moonstone

Often the most budget-friendly option, gray moonstones range from $8-$40 per carat and can offer excellent value for those seeking the moonstone look at lower prices.

Where Moonstone Prices Are Heading in 2025

The moonstone market has shown steady growth, with increasing demand from both jewelry designers and collectors. Several factors are influencing current pricing trends:

Market Drivers:

• Growing interest in alternative engagement stones
• Increased appreciation for unique gemstones
• Rising demand from metaphysical communities
• Limited supply of high-quality Sri Lankan material

Price Predictions: Quality moonstones are expected to maintain or increase their value, particularly premium blue varieties from established sources. However, commercial-grade stones should remain accessible to most buyers. When considering how much moonstones cost in the current market, expect continued demand to support stable pricing.

How to Get the Best Value When Buying Moonstones

Shopping Tips:

1. Buy from reputable dealers who can provide information about origin and treatments
2. Compare prices across multiple vendors before making a purchase
3. Consider slightly included stones for better value if the adularescence is still strong
4. Look for wholesale opportunities if buying multiple stones
5. Time your purchase during off-peak seasons for potential savings

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Prices that seem too good to be true (may indicate synthetic or treated stones)
• Dealers who can’t provide basic information about the stone’s origin
• Stones with very poor adularescence at premium prices
• Lack of return policies or guarantees

Moonstone Investment Potential

While moonstones aren’t typically considered investment-grade gemstones like diamonds or colored sapphires, high-quality specimens can hold their value well. Blue moonstones from Sri Lanka, in particular, have shown steady appreciation over time.

Investment Considerations:

• Focus on stones over 5 carats with exceptional adularescence
• Prioritize documented origin and quality
• Consider rarity factors like unusual colors or phenomena
• Keep detailed records and certificates

Caring for Your Moonstone Investment

Proper care helps maintain your moonstone’s value and is essential for preserving the investment you’ve made:

Is Moonstone Water Safe?

Yes, moonstone is generally water safe for cleaning and brief exposure. Unlike some gemstones that can be damaged by water, moonstone can be safely cleaned with water and mild soap. However, there are some important considerations:

Water Safety Guidelines:

• Safe for cleaning: Use lukewarm water with mild soap for regular cleaning
• Avoid prolonged soaking: Don’t leave moonstone jewelry in water for extended periods
• Be cautious with treated stones: Some enhanced moonstones may have surface treatments that could be affected by water
• Consider the setting: Water exposure may affect metal settings or other gemstones in the same piece

General Care Instructions:

• Clean with mild soap and soft brush using lukewarm water
• Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a soft cloth
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning
• Store separately to prevent scratching
• Protect from impacts (moonstones are relatively soft at 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale)
• Keep away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes

Conclusion: How Much Do Moonstones Cost in 2025

How much do moonstones cost? As we’ve explored, moonstone costs can range dramatically from under $20 per carat for commercial quality stones to over $1,000 per carat for exceptional blue specimens. The key to getting good value lies in understanding what drives moonstone pricing and shopping with reputable dealers who can provide detailed information about their stones.

Whether you’re seeking an affordable moonstone for everyday wear or a premium specimen for a special piece of jewelry, there are options available at every price point. When asking “how much do moonstones cost,” remember that by focusing on the quality of adularescence, color, and overall appearance rather than just carat weight, you can find beautiful moonstones that offer excellent value for your budget.

Remember that the “best” moonstone isn’t necessarily the most expensive one – it’s the stone that offers the right combination of beauty, quality, and value for your specific needs and preferences.