mineral
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Si,Al)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, reddish-brown with metallic glitter; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.62-2.65
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Orange, reddish-brown with metallic glitter
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, reddish-brown with metallic glitter; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.62-2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalt flows or pegmatites. The metallic glitter (aventurescence) is caused by tiny inclusions of copper or hematite plates.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons or faceted) and collected for its unique optical properties.
Geological facts
Oregon Sunstone is the official state gemstone of Oregon, USA, and is unique because its glitter is caused by microscopic inclusions of native copper.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic shimmery schiller effect when tilted in light. Found commonly in Oregon (USA), Norway, Tanzania, and India.
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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
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic