mineral

Sunstone (Feldspar)

Oligoclase / Labradorite (Plagioclase Feldspar Group, (Na,Ca)Al1-2Si2-3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Peach, salmon-pink, yellowish-orange to reddish-brown with schiller effect. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal System: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions intersecting at nearly 90 degrees.

Hardness: 6-6
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like basalt or pegmatites as well as high-grade metamorphic rocks. The metallic, shimmering optical effect (aventurescence/schiller) is caused by tiny hematite or copper inclusions reflection light.

Uses & applications

Popular as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads, and facets) and highly valued by mineral collectors for its unique optical phenomenon.

Geological facts

Sunstone was used by ancient Norse navigators (Vikings) as a polarization lens to locate the sun on cloudy days. Oregon Sunstone, which contains natural copper inclusions, is the official state gemstone of Oregon, USA.

Field identification & locations

Look for a warm peach-to-red hue with internal shimmering glitter (aventurescence) when turned under a light source. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), India, Madagascar, Canada, and Norway.

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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

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Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

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