mineral
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or peach with metallic glitter (schiller). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Specific gravity: 2.62-2.67.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, reddish-brown, or peach with metallic glitter (schiller). Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Specific gravity: 2.62-2.67.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous environments, particularly within basaltic or andesitic lava flows. The glitter comes from tiny plate-like inclusions of hematite, copper, or goethite that align during cooling.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons or faceted stones) and as a lapidary material for ornamental carvings and collections.
Geological facts
The shimmering effect is called 'aventurescence.' Oregon Sunstone is a famous variety that contains tiny inclusions of pure copper, making it unique to that region.
Field identification & locations
Identify by rotating the stone under light to see a sudden, sparkling flash of color. Commonly found in Oregon (USA), Norway, India, and Madagascar.
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Mineral/Rock
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Metamorphic Rock
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Biotite Schist
Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral