mineral
Sunstone
Feldspar (Plagioclase/Orthoclase)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 6 to 6.5; orange, brown, or reddish color; vitreous luster; triclinic or monoclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 6 to 6.5; orange, brown, or reddish color; vitreous luster; triclinic or monoclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalt or granite through the exsolution of copper platelets during cooling.
Uses & applications
Widely used in tumbled stones, beaded jewelry, carved ornaments, and high-end faceted gems.
Geological facts
The characteristic metallic shimmer, or aventurescence, is caused by tiny reflective inclusions of hematite or copper.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct shimmering metallic glitter when turned under a direct light source.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous