Sunstone (Oregon)
The Oregon Sunstone is one of America's most unique gems — a labradorite feldspar containing copper platelets that create an aventurescent metallic schiller. It's found in a single ancient lava flow in Lake County, Oregon. The BLM provides two free public collection areas where anyone can dig. Red and bicolor specimens are among the most valuable gems produced in the US.
Physical Properties
Chemical Formula
(Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈ with copper inclusions
Hardness (Mohs)
6–6.5
Color
Pale yellow, golden, orange, red, bicolor — copper schiller
Luster
Vitreous
Crystal System
Triclinic
Streak
White
Cleavage
Perfect in two directions
Specific Gravity
2.65–2.75
🔍 Field Identification Tips
Metallic glitter (schiller/aventurescence) visible at certain angles, caused by copper platelets — no other US gem shows this exact effect. Pale to deep color. Two perfect cleavage planes at right angles. Hardness 6–6.5. Distinguished from citrine/topaz by cleavage and metallic schiller.
Varieties & Forms
📍 Where to Find Sunstone (Oregon) in the US
Uses & Applications
Jewelry (Oregon state gemstone), cabochons, faceted gems, collectors specimens.
💰 Collector Value Guide
BLM self-collected: free. Commercial rough: $5–$200/ct depending on color. Red/bicolor faceted: $50–$500/ct. Top gem bicolor: $500–$2,000/ct.
Find Sunstone (Oregon) With Our Tools
Use the We Lick Rocks app to identify specimens, find dig sites, and connect with local rockhounds.