Tukikivet

Tukikivet, also known as moonstones, are a type of feldspar mineral that exhibit a unique optical phenomenon known as adularescence. This phenomenon causes the stone to display a silvery, iridescent glow when viewed under certain lighting conditions, resembling the light reflected off the moon. The glow is typically seen in shades of blue, green, or purple, and can change color as the angle of view or lighting changes.

Tukikivet are primarily composed of potassium feldspar, with trace amounts of other minerals. They are often found in pegmatites, which are igneous rocks formed from the slow crystallization of magma. The stones are typically translucent to opaque, with a glassy to pearly luster. Their hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 6 to 6.5, making them relatively durable.

The term "tukikivet" is derived from the Finnish word for moonstone, "tukikivi." Moonstones have been used in jewelry and decorative items for centuries, valued for their unique optical properties and aesthetic appeal. They are also used in lapidary work, where they are cut and polished to create cabochons and other decorative objects.

In addition to their aesthetic value, tukikivet have been used in various cultural and spiritual practices. In some traditions, they are believed to possess healing properties and are used in meditation and ritual objects. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and the stones are generally considered to be more valuable for their visual appeal than their potential therapeutic benefits.