mineral

Sunstone (Feldspar)

Plagioclase Feldspar ((Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8)

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Peach, orange, or reddish with metallic glints; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.62-2.72.

Hardness: 6
Color: Peach, orange, or reddish with metallic glints
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, typically cooling from basaltic or andesitic lava flows. The unique 'schiller' effect is caused by tiny hematite or copper inclusions that reflect light as the mineral cools.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings) and as a lapidary material for carvings or decorative items.

Geological facts

The metallic shimmer seen in sunstone is called 'aventurescence'. It was once thought to be used by Viking navigators to locate the sun on cloudy days, though this is often debated between Sunstone and Iceland Spar.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct orange-to-gold metallic 'glitter' or flakes within a translucent to opaque feldspar matrix. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, and India.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

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Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

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