mineral

Sunstone

Oligoclase (Plagioclase Feldspar) with hematite or copper inclusions

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or gold; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Aventurescence: Metallic glitter caused by plate-like inclusions.

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

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in cooling igneous rocks like basalt or latite, and sometimes in pegmatites. The aventurescent effect is caused by tiny platelets of hematite, goethite, or copper that crystallized within the feldspar during cooling.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone for jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings), as a collector's mineral, and for ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

The 'schiller' or glittery effect is what gives Sunstone its name. It was long associated with the sun in ancient cultures and was used by Vikings for navigation, possibly as a 'sunstone' polarizer to find the sun's position on cloudy days.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive orange-gold metallic glitter (aventurescence) when turned in the light. It is commonly found in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, and India. Oregon Sunstone is unique for having copper inclusions.

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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

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