mineral
Sunstone
Oligoclase (Plagioclase Feldspar) with hematite or copper inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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Physical properties
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.
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.
