Sunstone: Nature’s Radiant Crystal

Sunstone is a mesmerizing gemstone that never ceases to amaze with its clarity and natural brilliance. Unlike traditional sunstones, which shimmer due to copper or hematite inclusions, this variety is entirely transparent, featuring a deep, glowing orange hue that appears to shine from within.

The Science Behind Its Color

The vibrant coloration of transparent sunstone is a result of microscopic crystal structures within the mineral. Like moonstone, sunstone belongs to the feldspar family, making the two minerals close relatives. However, while moonstone is famous for its soft adularescence, sunstone stands out with its warm, golden-orange tones, reminiscent of summer sunsets.

A Personal Perspective

I was truly fascinated to discover how different this variety of sunstone is from the more common, glittering version. For me, transparent sunstone is a rare and underrated treasure. Its rich orange and golden tones pair beautifully with yellow or rose gold, creating elegant and eye-catching jewelry pieces.

A Hidden Gem in the Market

Despite its remarkable beauty, transparent sunstone remains undervalued. Those who appreciate natural gemstones with warmth and depth are sure to find this variety truly exceptional. If you are searching for something unique, radiant, and versatile, transparent sunstone is definitely worth exploring.

Do Sunstones Fade in the Sun? Let’s Find Out!

Today, we explored an intriguing question: Can sunstone lose its color when exposed to sunlight?

Sunstones are a variety of feldspar, known for their stunning red-orange shimmer. This glow comes from inclusions of hematite or copper, creating a vibrant effect that ranges from golden yellow to deep red.

But does prolonged sun exposure affect their color? For natural sunstones, the answer is no—their color is determined by internal structure, not by unstable impurities. However, if the stone has undergone treatment (such as heat enhancement), slight changes over time might be possible.

That said, there’s no need to worry! If your sunstone is natural and untreated, sunlight won’t harm it. So wear and enjoy your beautiful gemstone with confidence!

Olga Bachurina,
Co-Founder of Venus in Libra,
Certified by GIA & Gübelin Academy