The Specimen Library / Record

Sunstone

Feldspar / reflective inclusions

A feldspar name associated with warm color and reflective inclusions—not a guarantee of glitter or Oregon origin.

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01 · The material

Natural History

More than one feldspar can be sunstone. The inclusion material and geological source vary.

02 · Observe

Under the Loupe

Not every sunstone sparkles. Copper-bearing Oregon material must be distinguished from other sunstones and treated feldspar.

03 · Ownership

Collect & Care

Protect cleavage-prone stones from impacts. Keep source and treatment documents with a valuable piece.

04 · The human story

History, Lore & Tradition

Documented history

The name describes appearance, not one fixed chemical composition. Oregon sunstone has its own record in the Western materials collection.

Sources & further reading

References are labeled by role. A source documenting a belief is not evidence of a medical or mineralogical effect. Reflection prompts are C&C editorial suggestions.

The cabinet

Filed Under

Gem material / trade varietyFeldsparsYellow, orange, red, brown, green and clearAventurescence in some materialIdentification, collecting, care

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Field resources in development

  • Collector Record · future free download
  • Quick Reference · future free download
  • Coloring & Discovery Page · future low-cost resource

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