mineral
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or champagne with gold/pink aventurescence; Lustre: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 2.62-2.67
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5; Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or champagne with gold/pink aventurescence; Lustre: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 2.62-2.67
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalt flows or pegmatites. The shimmering aventurescence is caused by tiny inclusions of copper or hematite plates reflecting light.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons, faceted stones) and as a collector's specimen.
Geological facts
The Oregon Sunstone, found in the high desert of Oregon, is unique because its shimmer is caused by microscopic elemental copper rather than iron minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic metallic shimmer when tilted under light (schiller effect). It will scratch glass but can be scratched by quartz.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
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