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Sunstone

Sunstone’s phenomenal varieties show a distinct and lively glitter called aventurescence.

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Copper

Tiny copper platelets can cause the prized red hue in Oregon sunstone.

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Color zones

Some sunstones exhibit attractive color zoning.

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Matte finish

Matte-finish facets can provide an interesting and attractive contrast.

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Glitter

Sunstone’s glittery sparkle shows up even in its rough form.

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Bicolored

Some sunstone rough displays interesting zoned colors.

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Desert Sun

The Ponderosa mine produces many lovely specimens like this one.

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XClear Selections
Sunstone Woodmark picking thru the tray

Mining Sunstone at Ponderosa
Sunstone Woodmark History

Introduction to the Ponderosa Mine
This blue sapphire displays a six-star asterism.
Reflection from a cleavage plane causes the iridescent colors in this oligoclase sunstone cabochon.
about sunstone
This man’s ring features a sunstone from Plush, Oregon.
Dust Devil Don Buford History

History of the Dust Devil Mine

Tucson 13 Crevoshay

One-of-a-kind Designer Ring
Tucson 13 Crevoshay

The Dust Devil Mine
Dust Devil Don Buford Mining Tips

Sunstone Prospecting Tips
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All photos remain under the ©Gemological Institute of America copyright and may only be used with permission. More Copyright Information
This Month's

Featured Gems

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Peridot

Found in lava, meteorites, and deep in the earth’s mantle, yellow-green peridot is the extreme gem.
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Fancy Color Diamond

Dazzling brilliance. Captivating color. These are the planet’s most valued gems.
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Diamond

Diamonds are among nature’s most precious and beautiful creations.
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Emerald

Emerald is the bluish green to green variety of beryl, a mineral species that includes aquamarine.
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Citrine

Citrine is the transparent, pale yellow to brownish orange variety of quartz.

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