Characteristics of Sunstone:

Chemical Name: Sodium and calcium aluminosilicate (oligoclase)

Formula: Na (AlSi3O3) Ca (Al2Si2O8)

Colors: Grey, white, orange-brown, yellow

Structure: Triclinic

Hardness: 6.0-6.5

Specific Gravity: 2.62-2.65

Refractive Index: 1.53-1.55

Lustre: Vitreous

Streak: White

Locations: USA, Norway, India, Canada, Russia

What is Sunstone? 

Sunstone is a gem that takes its name from its appearance, rather than as a result of the specific mineral it is made from. All types are characterized by minute, plate-like inclusions or iron oxide or copper, oriented parallel to one another, which give the stones a spangled appearance and other a reddish glow. The mineral classification of sunstone can be either oligoclase (a plagioclase feldspar) or orthoclase (an alkali feldspar). Other feldspars also produce Sunstone in small quantities. Oligoclase Sunstone is the most common type.