Sunstone, also called Heliolite, is the state gem of Oregon, a prime source for this beautiful gem.
The name "Heliolite" is derived from the Greek "helios" and "lithos," meaning "sun" and "stone."
Sunstone is metallic in appearance and comes in red, orange or green. However, cleaner red sunstone is very rare and commands true gemstone prices. The stone is a composition of oligioclase feldspar, which also contains hematite or goethite. The presence of hematite or goethite creates a reflection of light, hence the name sunstone.
Sunstone is formed in molten lava and is discharged onto the surface with the help of a volcano. The lava weathers away or is broken and fine crystals of sunstone are then released. The Oregon sunstone is found with copper in it, which causes a range of colours from water-blue to yellow and many shades of green, red, and pink.
In the olden days, this stone was used by natives for trade. It was also believed by the Vikings to be a talisman for navigation. Sunstone is widely connected with human beings as defensive energy. It is thought to impart extra energy at times of stress or ill health, assist contemplative processes, and bolster energy levels.
The hardness of the stone is 6.5-7.2 on the Mohs scale and its density 2.62 - 2.65.
