mineral
Sunstone
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8 (Oligoclase or Andesine)
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Orange, reddish-brown with gold/copper metallic flashes (schiller); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Orange, reddish-brown with gold/copper metallic flashes (schiller); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in lava flows as phenocrysts. The characteristic 'sun' effect is caused by tiny inclusions of copper or hematite, often found in basaltic rocks.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons or faceted stones) and as a lapidary material for collectors.
Geological facts
Sunstone is the official state gemstone of Oregon. The metallic iridescent flash seen when light hits it is known as aventurescence.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive warm orange color and golden metallic glitter. Large deposits are found in Oregon (USA), Norway, and India.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
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
![Biotite Schist (Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/9ca564b5-bc87-402b-965a-69b21f9aa6bf-thumbnail.jpg)
Biotite Schist
Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]
metamorphic