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SUNSTONE
Sunstone’s phenomenal varieties show a distinct and lively glitter called aventurescence.
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Rainbow Rays in Rainbow Lattice Sunstone
Colorful rays of light are observed in an Australian rainbow lattice sunstone.
Special Colors and Optical Effects of Oregon Sunstone: Absorption, Scattering, Pleochroism, and Color Zoning
Details the colors and optical effects caused by metallic copper inclusions in this gem-quality feldspar.
Fluorescence Characteristics of Two Copper-Diffused Plagioclase Feldspars: Labradorite and Andesine
Examines the use of strong fluorescence near 394 nm under 320 nm excitation as a potential means of identifying copper diffusion treatment of feldspar.
Ponderosa Sunstone Update
John Woodmark provides an update on the Ponderosa sunstone mine in Oregon.
Exceptional Freeform Tanzanite and Oregon Sunstone Rings
A family sources, designs, and carves gems for extraordinary jewelry and pieces.
Paula Crevoshay’s American Collection, Plus Jewelry with Nontraditional Gemstones
Lesser-known gem materials are seen in pieces alongside a collection created as an artistic inheritance for future generations of jewelry fans.
A Sunstone Odyssey, Part 1: The Ponderosa
The first of a three-part series exploring Oregon’s state gem reports on a July 2013 visit to the Ponderosa mine, a prolific sunstone source surrounded by majestic ponderosas.
A Sunstone Odyssey, Part 2: The Dust Devil
We continued our "Sunstone Fantasy Adventure" series by visiting the Dust Devil mine, where many of the most acclaimed faceted gemstones and carvings are produced.
A Sunstone Odyssey, Part 3: Sunstone Butte
The final installment of the "Odyssey Sunstone" series introduces the Sunstone Butte mine (a new site with a wealth of spectacular green and bicolor gemstones).
Three Occurrences of Oregon Sunstone
Chronicles a visit to the high desert of eastern Oregon to examine commercial sources of this natural copper-bearing feldspar.
The Chinese Red Feldspar Controversy: Chronology of Research Through July 2009
Red copper-containing plagioclase feldspar from Oregon has been available for over a century.
