gemstone
Sunstone
Feldspar group (Oligoclase / Labradorite)
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from yellow, orange, to reddish-brown, vitreous to pearly luster, triclinic crystal system, distinct cleavage in two directions, specific gravity around 2.62-2.65.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Sunstone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from yellow, orange, to reddish-brown, vitreous to pearly luster, triclinic crystal system, distinct cleavage in two directions, specific gravity around 2.62-2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous rocks such as basalt and granite, or in metamorphic rocks, often containing microscopic platelets of hematite or goethite that create an aventurescence effect.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry making for rings, pendants, and earrings, as well as valued by collectors.
Geological facts
Sunstone gets its shimmering optical effect, known as aventurescence, from tiny inclusions of reflective copper or hematite minerals trapped inside the feldspar matrix.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its characteristic warm metallic glitter or sheen when rotated under a light source. Commonly found in locations like Oregon, USA, India, Norway, and Madagascar.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Black Opal Ring (Carved Opal)
Hydrated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2·nH2O)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone