mineral

Sunstone (Feldspar variety)

(Na,Ca)(Si,Al)3O8 - Plagioclase Feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale. Color: Orange, reddish-brown, pinkish-peach with shimmering flashes. Luster: Vitreous to pearly, schiller effect (aventurescence). Cleavage: Perfect in two directions meeting at nearly 90 degrees.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Orange, reddish-brown, pinkish-peach with shimmering flashes
Luster: Vitreous to pearly, schiller effect (aventurescence)

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous pegmatites and basaltic lava flows where plagioclase feldspar crystallizes slowly, allowing tiny hematite, copper, or goethite platelets to align inside.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts, jewelry making (cabochons, beads), and as an ornamental gemstone for collectors.

Geological facts

The characteristic shimmer is caused by microscopic inclusions of hematite, copper, or goethite reflecting light, a optical phenomenon known as aventurescence or 'schiller'.

Field identification & locations

Look for a warm orange to reddish body color with metallic shimmer when rotated under light. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), India, Norway, Canada, and Madagascar.