mineral

Sunstone (Orthoclase Feldspar variant)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8) with inclusions

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Peach, orange, or reddish-brown. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic or Triclinic. Notable for 'aventurescence,' a metallic glitter caused by tiny plate-like inclusions.

Hardness: 6
Color: Peach, orange, or reddish-brown
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified January 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, particularly in pegmatites and lava flows. The unique optical effect is created by the exsolution of copper or hematite crystals during the cooling of molten rock over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons and beads). It is also a popular specimen for crystal collectors and sometimes used in decorative carvings.

Geological facts

Oregon Sunstone is unique because it contains microscopic inclusions of elemental copper rather than hematite, resulting in colors ranging from clear to deep red and green. It was designated as the state gemstone of Oregon in 1987.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct peach-to-orange hue and the characteristic golden or reddish shimmer when rotated under light. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, and India.

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