mineral

Sunstone

Plagioclase feldspar (with Copper or Hematite inclusions)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, red, golden; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Features 'schiller' or aventurescence effect.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Orange, red, golden
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, red, golden; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Features 'schiller' or aventurescence effect.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic rocks as crystals solidify from magma or through high-pressure recrystallization. High-quality specimens often come from basaltic lava flows.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings) and as a collector's mineral specimen. Some lower-grade material is used for decorative carvings.

Geological facts

The metallic glitter, known as aventurescence, is caused by light reflecting off tiny platelets of copper or hematite. Oregon, USA is world-famous for its high-quality copper-bearing sunstone, which was named the state gemstone in 1987.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct metallic shimmer (schiller) when tilted in the light. It is commonly found in basalt flows in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, and India.

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