gemstone
Sunstone
Feldspar (Plagioclase group, (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color with a characteristic metallic shimmer or glitter (aventurescence) caused by microscopic copper inclusions, vitreous luster, and triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color with a characteristic metallic shimmer or glitter (aventurescence) caused by microscopic copper inclusions, vitreous luster, and triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalt and andesite, as well as metamorphic rocks, through cooling magma or hydrothermal activity over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry-making for rings, pendants, and earrings, and collected as a gemstone specimen.
Geological facts
The optical effect known as aventurescence is caused by tiny reflective platelets of hematite or copper suspended within the stone.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its warm peachy-orange hue and distinct metallic glitter under direct light; commonly found in Oregon, USA, and Norway.
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