gemstone

Sunstone

Oligoclase (Plagioclase Feldspar) with inclusions of Hematite or Copper

Hardness: 6.0-7.2 (Mohs); Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or yellow; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Features aventurescence (metallic schiller).

Hardness: 6
Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or yellow
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 15, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like basalt flows or plutonic rocks through slow cooling, allowing copper or hematite platelets to precipitate within the feldspar lattice. Most abundant in Oregon (basalt) and Norway (pegmatite).

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a semi-precious gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and faceted stones) and for lapidary arts and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Oregon Sunstone is the official state gemstone of Oregon. The metallic glitter effect is known as 'schiller' and is caused by light reflecting off tiny plates of copper or hematite inside the stone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for the 'aventurescent' flash when rotating the stone under light. Look for its characteristic cleavage planes and distinct orange-to-red metallic sheen. Common in Oregon, USA, and parts of India and Norway.

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ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)

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Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)

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Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)

Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)

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Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions

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Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass

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