mineral

Sunstone (Aventurine Feldspar)

(Ca,Na)((Al,Si)2Si2O8) with inclusions of Cu or Fe2O3

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Orange, reddish-brown with metallic schiller; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.62-2.67

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Orange, reddish-brown with metallic schiller
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, typically within basaltic lava flows or pegmatites. The metallic glitter (aventurescence) is caused by tiny plate-like inclusions of hematite, goethite, or copper that reflect light.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings) and as a lapidary material for carvings and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Oregon Sunstone is unique because its inclusions are made of pure copper, whereas most others use hematite. In 1987, it was designated as the state gemstone of Oregon.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for the schiller effect (a metallic glitter) when the stone is rotated under light. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, India, and Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

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

metamorphic

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

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

Metamorphic Rock