Oregon Sunstone Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

What is Oregon Sunstone?

Gem collectors and jewelry lovers from all over the world are fast becoming aware of this uniquely American gemstone. While many varieties of labradorite feldspar can display aventurescence or schiller and are commonly called "sunstones," those effects are typically caused by inclusions of hematite or goethite. In contrast, the labradorite sunstones found in Oregon have inclusions of copper. This unique happenstance means these gemstones may both display a schiller effect and transparency. This makes them highly desirable as faceted jewelry stones.

Intense red and transparent gems with schiller are in great demand. However, many color varieties occur in Oregon, with and without the glowing effect.

Oregon Sunstone Symbolism

Although a relative newcomer to many in the gem buying public, Oregon sunstone has traditionally been valued and traded by the Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest. In 1987, Oregon officially declared it its state gemstone. In the esoteric realm of birthstone mythology, sunstones are considered the phenomenal birthstone for those born on Sunday.

Is Oregon Sunstone the Same Thing as Viking Sunstone?

Although they share a name (and pleochroism, the display of two or more colors when viewed from different angles), Oregon sunstones are not the so-called "sunstones" Vikings reputedly used to navigate on overcast days or when the sun was low in the Arctic sky. Pleochroic iolite was most likely the "Viking Compass."

Identifying Characteristics

Inclusions

The only feldspar sunstone with copper inclusions is Oregon sunstone. However, not all specimens display the schiller effect. The copper inclusions in Oregon sunstone come in varieties like threads, spots, sheets, and clouds.

Pleochroism

Synthetics

Oregon sunstones have not been synthesized. However, goldstone, a synthetic material made of glass with copper inclusions, may be used as a simulant. A gemologist can easily distinguish a natural Oregon sunstone from one of these glass pieces.

Enhancements

Although plagioclase feldspars such as andesine can be enhanced with the addition of copper through heating and pressure treatments, Oregon sunstone isn't known to be enhanced or treated. It acquires its copper naturally.

Sources

Substantial amounts of high-value Oregon sunstone rough are now being extracted from its namesake state. 

Harney County and Lake County, Oregon produce Oregon sunstone. Companies on private claims mine most of this material. However, there's a public Sunstone Collection Area in Lake County.

Caring for Oregon Sunstone Jewelry

Because of their hardness of 6 to 6.5, Oregon sunstones are best suited for jewelry such as pendants, earrings, brooches, or other pieces that won't endure heavy wear. Common dust has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 and will scratch this material. Steel can also scratch gems with a hardness of 6. For ring use, place Oregon sunstones in protective settings.

The best cleaning method for Oregon sunstones is warm water, detergent, and a soft brush. Avoid mechanical cleaning methods such as ultrasonic systems and steam. Consult our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide for more information.

Examples of Oregon Sunstones