mineral
Sunstone
Feldspar group (Plagioclase / Oligoclase)
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from colorless, yellow, orange, red to reddish-brown, often displaying a spangled appearance (aventurescence) due to tiny copper or hematite inclusions, vitreous luster, triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from colorless, yellow, orange, red to reddish-brown, often displaying a spangled appearance (aventurescence) due to tiny copper or hematite inclusions, vitreous luster, triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous rocks like basalt and granitic pegmatites, as well as metamorphic rocks. The aventurescence is created by the exsolution of copper platelets during cooling.
Uses & applications
Used as a gemstone in rings, necklaces, and earrings, as well as in mineral collections and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Sunstone was prized by ancient cultures, and Vikings are rumored to have used it as a navigational compass to locate the sun on cloudy days due to its polarization properties.
Field identification & locations
Found in locations such as Oregon (USA), Norway, India, and Russia. Easily identified by its distinct shimmering orange-to-red metallic flakes when rotated in the light.
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