Oregon Sunstone is the official gemstone of Oregon
Sunstone is a type of feldspar mineral, admired for its captivating optical feature known as aventurescence. This effect creates sparkling or glittery appearance, resulting from the presence of tiny metallic particles typically hematite or goethite within the stone. This optical phenomenon usually occurs in two types of feldspar: oligoclase and labradorite.
Sunstones are found in various locations worldwide, including Canada, Mexico, Norway, Australia, Russia, China, Tanzania, and several states in the United States.
One unique variety, the Oregon Sunstone, is primarily discovered in the high desert near the small community of Plush in southeastern Oregon. What sets these sunstones apart from others around the globe is that they are the only known labradorite sunstones to contain copper. This copper content gives the stones a shimmering, metallic sparkle or iridescence, making them especially prized and often referred to as "Plush Diamonds".
Oregon Sunstone Formations
These gemstones were formed during volcanic events that occurred around 13 to 14 million years ago, when the Steens Mountains erupted, releasing vast amounts of lava.
The lava was later submerged under a large lake, where it remained underwater for thousands of years. As the lava cooled, feldspar crystals containing tiny copper inclusions began to form. Over time, as the lake dried up and weathering occurred, the surface lava broke down, exposing the loose sunstones that are now collected and mined today.
Oregon Sunstone Color and Transparency
Oregon Sunstones display a wide range of colors, with the most common being clear to slightly amber hues. Other shades include orange, pink, red, and, on occasion, green or blue. The presence of copper plays a key role in producing more vivid colors.
The stone's coloration is directly linked to the amount of copper it contains. For example:
- Red stones have the highest copper concentration, exceeding 200 parts per million (0.02%).
- Green stones typically contain about 100 parts per million (0.01%).
- Yellow stones hold around 20 parts per million (0.002%).
These copper-rich stones are highly valued by collectors and artisans. Some Oregon Sunstones even show multiple colors, such as pink on one side and red on the other, or a blend of green and red. The rarest examples exhibit dichroic or trichroic qualities, meaning their colors shift or intensify when viewed from different angles. Certain stones may even resemble alexandrite, changing color based on the type of light, such as daylight versus incandescent light.
In terms of clarity, Oregon Sunstones range from transparent to opaque. The most valuable varieties are those that are transparent, richly colored, and exhibit strong aventurescence (a sparkling effect).
Value of Raw Sunstone
Oregon Sunstones are prized for their exceptional quality, including rich reddish-orange tones, copper schiller, and remarkable transparency. Since these unique gems are found only in Oregon, their value can range from just a few U.S. dollars for lighter, colorless stones to as much as $2,000 per carat for larger stones with deep red or green hues.
Where to Find Oregon Sunstones?
The southern and southeastern regions of Oregon are the only known locations where gem-quality sunstones with copper inclusions are found. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) established the Sunstone Gem Collection Area, where visitors can legally collect sunstones.
In addition, three mines near the Public Collection Area offer pay-to-dig opportunities.
Why is Oregon Sunstone Special?
Oregon Sunstones are distinct due to their ability to display both transparency and the schiller effect, which makes them highly sought after for faceted jewelry. Their vibrant colors, coupled with a shimmering iridescence or schiller, make them especially popular among jewelers and collectors.
In recognition of their uniqueness, Oregon Sunstones were named the official state gemstone in 1987.
Oregon Sunstone Processing Tips
Oregon Sunstones are widely used in various types of jewelry, such as rings, earrings, and pendants. Their vivid colors and unique sparkle make them a favorite choice for designers and collectors alike.
These stones are easy to tumble, shape, and polish, producing a smooth, glossy finish that enhances their natural beauty and makes them ideal for jewelry pieces.
Oregon Sunstone Spirituality and Lore
Oregon Sunstone had a special place in Native American spirituality and culture. They traded it throughout the West, and it played a big part in their Medicine Wheel ceremonies.
Native Americans even buried Oregon Sunstone with their loved ones and kept it in sacred bundles.
In modern spirituality, Oregon Sunstone is believed to hold positive energy. It is said to channel the power of the sun, giving those who wear it:
- Prosperity: It brings good luck and success.
- Wisdom: It helps you think clearly and make better decisions.
- Fearlessness: It can give you the courage to face your fears.
- Generosity: It encourages kindness and sharing.
Others say it helps with mental clarity, clearing away confusion and stress.
