Rock Identifier
Sunstone with Black Tourmaline (Arfvedsonite) (Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8 with Schorl Na(Fe3+)3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3(OH)) — mineral
mineral

Sunstone with Black Tourmaline (Arfvedsonite)

Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8 with Schorl Na(Fe3+)3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3(OH)

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Feldspar) and 7 (Tourmaline). Color: Peach, orange, or salmon pink base with black inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for the peach feldspar.

Hardness
6-6
Color
Peach, orange, or salmon pink base with black inclusions
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Feldspar) and 7 (Tourmaline). Color: Peach, orange, or salmon pink base with black inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for the peach feldspar.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, specifically in pegmatites or basaltic flows where copper or hematite platelets create the 'sunstone' aventurescence and black tourmaline crystals form during the late stages of hydrothermal cooling.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental carvings, polished points (towers) for metaphysical collections, jewelry cabochons, and as decorative display specimens.

Geological facts

The 'schiller' effect or shimmer in sunstone is typically caused by tiny platelets of hematite or copper. When found with black inclusions, it is often marketed as 'Black Sunstone' or sunstone with Arfvedsonite/Tourmaline.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct contrast of salmon-colored feldspar and jet-black needle-like or blocky inclusions. Field identification involves looking for the 'aventurescence' (metallic glitter) characteristic of sunstone variety feldspar.

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