How Are Moonstones Mined?
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Mining Moonstones
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Mining moonstone is usually done by hand, because most moonstones show up as masses of rock and pebbles. In most areas of the world, moonstone mining is a very small operation conducted in rural locations. Methods are primitive--even dangerous.
Underground Mining
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The most popular method is underground mining. Long, narrow holes 20 to 30 feet deep are dug into the earth in an area conducive to moonstone production. Miners, carrying huge wicker baskets, are lowered into them. They shine flashlights on feldspar veins. Once they see a likely looking vein, the miners follow it with a pick axe. The miners fill the baskets with loose dirt, gravel and pebbles. They then lift the baskets back up above ground, where others wash the loose gravel and pebbles in search of quality gemstones.
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Alluvial Mining
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Another method called alluvial mining consists of workers using woven screens, similar to sieves, to pan through the loose gravel and soil deposits in a river. Other types of mining that are more destructive, such as blasting with dynamite, can't be used for moonstones because they're too soft.
Mine Problems
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Unfortunately, many moonstone mines in South Asia rely on cheap labor to function. This results in many children being forced into physically difficult work. Additionally, many mines are extremely primitive. The holes aren't dug safely and aren't reinforced when chasing a large vein. There are many instances of mines collapsing with miners still in them. Many companies are working hard to try to reverse these trends, as well as trying to ensure that mines are more environmentally friendly.
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