Moonstone is a gem that is not suitable for everyday wear. It is not extremely hard and it cleaves easily, so care must be taken. Moonstone has a Mohs hardness of between 6 and 6.5, so it can be scratched by many common objects. Moonstone also has two directions of perfect cleavage, so it can be broken by a sharp impact.

Although moonstone rings are very popular, they are best worn at times when the risk of abrasion or impact is low. Moonstone makes wonderful earrings and pendants, and with these types of use the risk of damage is much lower. A setting that protects the gem can further reduce the risk of damaging moonstone jewelry.