mineral
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Peach, salmon pink, to reddish-brown. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Peach, salmon pink, to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Peach, salmon pink, to reddish-brown. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous rocks such as basalt or andesite and in pegmatites. The distinct shimmer, or aventurescence, is caused by inclusions of copper, hematite, or goethite. Found in Cenozoic volcanic flows.
Uses & applications
Mostly used as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons, faceted stones) and for metaphysical/collecting purposes.
Geological facts
Oregon Sunstone is the official state gemstone of Oregon. Rare varieties can exhibit a 'shiller' effect where microscopic metal platelets reflect light in a glittering metallic display.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warm peachy-orange hue and the characteristic shimmering glitter under direct light. Often found in weathered volcanic areas and gravel beds.
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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