Sunstone Properties, Facts and Photos
What is Sunstone?
Sunstone is a variety of feldspar that exhibits an optical phenomenon known as aventurescence.
Also known as aventurine feldspar, sunstone's chemical composition includes elements like aluminium, silicon, oxygen, and varying amounts of sodium or potassium.
Tiny plate-like metallic inclusions of the minerals goethite or hematite give sunstone a 'glittery' appearance.
This optical phenomenon is correctly known as aventurescence. Inclusions can occasionally also be copper.
Sunstone that's heavily included is far more desirable.
Heliolite, which comes from the Greek words 'helios' meaning 'sun' and 'lithos' meaning 'stone,' was once used as an alternative name for sunstone but is now rarely used.
Sunstone is one of the few gemstones whose colour is never enhanced.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, sunstone grades 6 to 6.5, so it's relatively hard. Hardness should not be confused for toughness which relates to a rock or mineral's resistance to cracking, breaking or chipping.
Sunstone comes primarily from India, Canada, Norway, China, the United States (in particular Oregon) and Russia.
Sunstone Vs Goldstone
Goldstone is a man-made material also known as aventurine glass. It was once widely used to imitate natural sunstone, but it's rare to see it used for this purpose anymore.
In goldstone, light reflects off tiny specs of crystallised copper added during production. The effect can be vaguely similar to the aventurescence in sunstone.
Properties of Sunstone
Sunstone is a stone of protection that increases the power of personal attraction. It can clear and energise the chakras, dissipate fear, and alleviate stress.
A stone of light and happiness, sunstone heightens intuition and reminds you of the importance of taking care of yourself.
It generates light and brings energy to dark situations. It's an excellent stone for cutting ties with someone negative or despondent.
For those who find it difficult to say no, sunstone can give you the confidence to remove yourself from a situation. It helps you to do this positively without making sacrifices you don't want to make.
Sunstone gently reverses feelings of failure and increases self-worth and confidence. A stone of optimism, it works to find something positive in almost every situation.
Sunstone is widely used to help combat SAD (seasonal affective disorder). Being a stone of hope and optimism, it can also help with depression and anxiety.
Due to its appearance, sunstone was used in ancient Greece to represent the sun God Helios. It was said to bring life and abundance to those fortunate enough to wear or carry it.
Sunstone was also used in goblets and plates because it was believed to counteract the effects of poison and produce strength.
In ancient India, sunstone was believed to offer protection from the destructive forces of other realms.
Article Photos
The sunstone at the top of our article is a stock photo. The sunstone tumbled stones are from our collection.
Pop-up photos: Copper and hematite - Courtesy of Stan Celestian. Sunstone - Courtesy of James St. John.
