Comparison · Minerals vs Semi-Precious Stones
Labradorite vs Moonstone
Labradorite and Moonstone are easy to confuse. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Labradorite and Moonstone
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in gray and blue, but Labradorite also comes in green and yellow and Moonstone also comes in white and pink.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Labradorite is triclinic, Moonstone is monoclinic.
Labradorite vs Moonstone properties
| Property | Labradorite | Moonstone |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Semi-Precious Stones |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 6 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | triclinic | monoclinic |
| Common colors | Gray, Blue flash, Green flash, Gold flash | White, Gray, Peach, Blue sheen |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$300+ | $10–$500+ |
Which is more valuable?
Moonstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Moonstone can reach $500 or more.
About Labradorite
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral famous for its stunning iridescent display called labradorescence, showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange.
About Moonstone
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral known for its adularescence—a billowy blue-white light that moves across the surface like moonlight on water.
Labradorite vs Moonstone FAQ
Is Labradorite the same as Moonstone?
No. Labradorite is a mineral while Moonstone is a semi-precious stone. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Labradorite from Moonstone?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in gray and blue, but Labradorite also comes in green and yellow and Moonstone also comes in white and pink. Well-formed crystals give it away: Labradorite is triclinic, Moonstone is monoclinic.
Which is harder, Labradorite or Moonstone?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 6.
Which is more valuable, Labradorite or Moonstone?
Moonstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Labradorite, and premium Moonstone can reach $500 or more.
