Sunstone from Karnataka, India (No.99)

Sunstone is an oligoclase feldspar mineral. It is also known is some reference books as Aventurine Feldspar, a name derived from the stone’s resemblance to an accidentally discovered type of glass known as Ventura. Sunstone has a triclinic crystal system and usually occurs as compact aggregates. The colour is orange to red-brown, with sparkling inclusions. The name Sunstone comes from its warm colour and reflected light, reminiscent of the sun. Sunstone deposits are known in India, Canada, Norway, Russia and the USA.