Sunstone

Scientific Name: Plagioclase feldspars

Group: Silicates – tectosilicates

Chemical composition: (Na,Ca)Al2Si2O8

Colors: Peach, gold, brown

Hardness: 6

Formation: Triclinic crystal; massive form

Principal Sources: Southern Norway and Oregon, USA

Special Notes: Sunstone is a plagioclase feldspar, which when viewed from certain directions exhibits a brilliant spangled appearance. The optical effect appears to be due to reflections from inclusions of red copper which create schiller. It is the official gemstone of Oregon.