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Sunstone Properties Facts and Photos

natural rough sunstone

Sunstone Meaning and Properties

Sunstone also known as aventurine feldspar is a variety of feldspar.  Stones are known for having a spangly appearance correctly known as aventurescence.

This optical phenomenon is caused by the presence of tiny plate-like inclusions of the minerals goethite or hematite.  The inclusions can occasionally also be copper.

The more heavily included the more desirable the stone.  The aventurescence in sunstone is caused as light reflects off the metallic inclusions.

Heliolite which comes from the Greek word 'helios' meaning 'sun' and 'lithos' meaning 'stone' was once used as an alternative name for sunstone. It's now very rarely used. 

Sunstone is one of the few gemstones whose colour is never enhanced.

On Mohs scale of mineral hardness it grades 6 to 6.5 which makes it 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, United States (in particular Oregon) and Russia.

sunstone tumbled stones

Sunstone Vs Goldstone

Goldstone is a man-made material also known as aventurine glass.  It's often used to imitate natural sunstone.  In goldstone tiny specs of copper reflect light from within the stone which give a similar appearance to the aventurescence present in sunstone.

Healing Properties of Sunstone

In ancient Greece sunstone was believed to represent the sun God.  It was said to bring life and abundance to those fortunate enough to be able 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.

Today when used for its metaphysical healing properties sunstone is said to be a stone of protection which increases the power of personal attraction.  It can be used to clear and energize the chakras, to 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. 

Sunstone generates light and brings energy to dark situations.  It's a good stone to use if you're looking to cut ties with someone who's negative or despondent.

For those who find it difficult to say no it can give you the confidence to remove yourself from a situation.  It does this in a positive manner and without you having to make a sacrifice 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.

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