By: Farmonaut

In 2025, rainbow moonstone from Madagascar is a standout in the global gemstone market, celebrated for its vibrant, multi-colored adularescence (an optical shimmer), rarity, and growing association with ethical sourcing. As the supplier of over 50% of the world's rainbow moonstone, Madagascar's stones are particularly prized for their superior clarity, size, and intense spectral flashes compared to those from other regions.

Key Characteristics & Market Value:

Properties: A feldspar mineral with a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, known for its play of blue, gold, pink, green, and purple hues.

Value: High-quality, ethically certified stones from Madagascar command a premium, ranging from $70 to $300 per carat. Value is determined by the strength of the adularescence, clarity, color variety, and carat size.

Ethical Sourcing and Sustainability:

A significant driver of its popularity is the increased focus on responsible mining practices in Madagascar. This includes:

Artisanal Mining: Over 80% of mining is small-scale, supporting local livelihoods.

Environmental Efforts: Initiatives aim to minimize ecological damage, with claims of a 70% lower environmental impact than conventional methods.

Traceability: Blockchain technology is increasingly used to provide transparent certification from mine to market, which adds value and consumer confidence.

Jewelry Trends and Symbolism:

The gemstone is highly sought-after in jewelry for its beauty and metaphysical attributes, which are associated with intuition, balance, and emotional healing. It features prominently in statement rings, pendants, and other pieces, often marketed with sustainability claims.

In summary, Madagascar's rainbow moonstone in 2025 represents a convergence of exceptional aesthetic qualities and a modern demand for ethical, transparently sourced gemstones.