Where is Sunstone found?
Feldspar (Oligoclase variety)
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Open the appSunstone occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Sunstone
Oregon, USA
Famous for its copper-bearing sunstone, which exhibits a unique schiller effect and can be found in various colors, including green and red. Occurs in basaltic lava flows.
Norway
Known for sunstone with hematite inclusions, often found in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks.
India
Produces sunstone with hematite or goethite inclusions, often from metamorphic terrains.
Tanzania
Source of sunstone with good aventurescence.
Canada
Found in various localities, often associated with anorthosite complexes.
Collecting tips
- Look for Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks. Sunstone is typically found in specific geological environments. Focus your search in areas known for granites, syenites, anorthosites, basalts, or certain metamorphic rocks.
- Identify the Schiller Effect. The most distinctive feature of sunstone is its aventurescence. Look for a glittery or spangled effect when rotating the specimen under a light source. This is crucial for distinguishing it from other feldspars.
- Check for Cleavage. Like all feldspars, sunstone exhibits two perfect cleavage planes at nearly 90 degrees. This can help confirm it's a feldspar, though not specifically sunstone.
- Consider Associated Minerals. Sunstone often occurs with other minerals typical of its host rock, such as quartz, hornblende, biotite, and other feldspars. Familiarize yourself with these associations.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Yellow, orange, red, brown, or colorless with a metallic glitter.
- Luster:
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous with aventurescence.
- Streak:
- White
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