gemstone
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, peach to orange-red color, vitreous luster, and distinct cleavage with characteristic aventurescence caused by microscopic copper platelets.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, peach to orange-red color, vitreous luster, and distinct cleavage with characteristic aventurescence caused by microscopic copper platelets.
Formation & geological history
Formed through magmatic crystallization in felsic igneous rocks or basaltic flows, often millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Widely utilized in fine jewelry, carvings, and as a collectible gemstone.
Geological facts
Sunstone is the official state gemstone of Oregon and gets its shimmering optical effect from tiny reflective mineral inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic warm reddish-orange metallic flash when rotated in sunlight; found globally including in the USA, India, and Norway.
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