gemstone
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from colorless, yellow, orange, to red and pink; vitreous to pearly luster; triclinic crystal system; distinct cleavage; specific gravity around 2.62-2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from colorless, yellow, orange, to red and pink; vitreous to pearly luster; triclinic crystal system; distinct cleavage; specific gravity around 2.62-2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like basalts and granites, as well as metamorphic rocks, through the inclusion of tiny reflective platelets of hematite or copper which give it its characteristic metallic shimmer known as aventurescence.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry such as rings, pendants, and earrings, and collected as a gemstone specimen.
Geological facts
Sunstone was used by Viking navigators as a navigational tool to locate the sun on cloudy days due to its polarization properties.
Field identification & locations
Found in localities like Oregon in the USA, Norway, and India. Easily identified by its warm orange-red color and distinct glitter or metallic sheen when moved in the light.
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