mineral
Sunstone (Feldspar variety)
(Na,Ca)(Si,Al)3O8 - Plagioclase Feldspar
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)
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Physical properties
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.
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.
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