What is Sunstone

Sunstone is a feldspar crystal. It includes Hematite and Goethite which help it to refract light and creates iridescence when viewed from different angles. Often found in warm shades of orange, gold, red and brown and with a translucent look, the meaning behind Sunstone is focused on abundance and joy.

The Stone of Good Fortune

• A warm stone with summer moods
• First discovered in Norway
• Brings light to the darkness

For those who need to bask in the warmth, feel light spill across their skin, and who find themselves way more energized in the softer months than the dark winter nights, the Sunstone is here to ensure you keep a piece of endless summer close by. A magical member of the Feldspar family, the Sunstone sometimes goes by other names like Aventurine Feldspar or Goldstone, but we think it wears the name Sunstone best. With its golden orange warmth, sparkling layers, and iridescent style when caught in the light, Sunstone embraces its kinship with the great ball of fire in the sky, echoing its lifegiving properties and glorious feeling that everything is going to be OK.

The Sunstone was uncovered first in the Fjord sweeping lands of Norway, it was said that the Vikings used this shimmering bright stone as a compass to find their way across the cold cobalt blue waters and onto greener pastures. Even beyond the ancient Nordic texts, the Sunstone was also said to be a beautiful healer in Native American culture and is said to have earned its shading from the blood of a great wounded warrior. Sunstone has crept to every corner of myth and legend with even the Ancient Greeks believing that this precious piece of warmth came from the sun god.

Along with healing qualities, granting joy and gifting direction to those who feel unsure of which way to turn, the Sunstone is said to harness the power of the sun. It can lend light where there is darkness, bring warmth where there is cold, gift vitality where there is sluggish energy, and shake you up with joie de vivre and a heady dose of vitamin C for the soul. It is mined across the globe, not just in Norway but also in Greece, Russia, Canada, the USA, and India. To find out more about the sunny kiss of Sunstone keep on reading.

If Sunstone isn’t sparking your soul fire be sure to take a look at our healing crystal guide and find your own essential gemstone to bring you inner power.

Healing Properties of Sunstone

Bright and bountiful, one glance at Sunstone is sure to fill your heart with positive energy and soak you in the spirit of good luck. This golden glow stone is rich in vitality, alive with life-giving magic, and just seems to make everyone smile thanks to its moods of balmy barefoot days and dreams. For anyone who tends to feel weighed down by chill winds, clouds, and early darkened nights, then the Sunstone is your spirited pick me up that is going to lift every element of your body, mind, and soul.

If you are looking for an extra dose of solar plexus chakra cleansing, you can also pair this luminous piece of crystal light with yellow Labradorite, Fire Agate, Amber, or Yellow Apatite to turn its energy up to eleven.

Physical Healing Properties

• Helps with rheumatism and joint pain
• Encourages healthy metabolism

Just like standing in the sunlight brings a sense of life and convalescence, the Sunstone too, knows how to immediately pick you up and put you on the path to strength and self-empowerment. For those who struggle with seasonal affective disorder, Sunstone can be just the extra dose of mental vitamin D you need to chase away those darker days. For those who suffer from problems like chronic sore throats, stomach tension, ulcers, or any issues that connect to the digestive system and metabolism. Since ancient times, this bright light stone has been used to help the body heal, whether from rheumatism and joint pain or even from cramps and fevers, the shimmer of Sunstone wants you in tip-top shape.

Mental & Emotional Healing Properties

• Boosts your sense of self-empowerment
• Helps clear negative energy

Step into self-empowerment and learn to own lashings of personal power as you say yes to the warming glow of the Sunstone. As one of the best healing stones for seasonal affective disorder, the Sunstone is an instant mood brightener. It’s an excellent choice for those who struggle to stick to boundaries. Sunstone shines its light and makes it easy to speak your truth, use your No when you need it, and to cut you off from co-dependent behavior.

Sunstone infuses you with worthiness, it hits all the right notes for ensuring that negative energies melt away and you are left with the radiance of optimism and a positive can-do attitude. While Sunstone is known for its bright sense of optimism that doesn’t mean that it coats everything with a rosy hue. This stone knows that for a healthy and balanced mindset, it's important to have a full spectrum of emotions, but it also knows that emotional intelligence comes from feeling rooted in self-worth, confidence, and the knowledge that no matter what happens you will find a spot of light in which to persevere.

Metaphysical Properties

• Balances the sacral chakra.
• Connects with the heart chakra

Just like the sunlight chasing away shadows, the Sunstone is a cleanser of negative energy and ever ready to get to work on shifting blocks from your chakras. This is a stone that shares its color cycles with the sacral chakra, the place that houses your unique inner chi. This is where your life force flows and where your sensuality and pleasure in experiencing the world sits. When our sacral chakra is cracked open we are able to communicate with ease, to move with inner grace, and to laugh with freedom. Sunstone also connects with the heart chakra, the place that teaches us how to give and receive love only and how to form healthy relationships and bonds with those who bring equilibrium and the right kind of energy to our life. It teaches us how to trust. Speaking of trust, Sunstone can also help us to clear our third eye chakra too, the place of our deep wisdom and intuition.

Zodiac Birthstone

• A good match for Libra
• Suits Leo’s too

Those born under the banner of Libra will love the fiery glow of the Sunstone. Librans are known for their sublime sense of idealism, their just and fair approach to life, and their gracious connections to friends and strangers. They can also be indecisive and a little self-pitying and tend to go well out of their way to avoid confrontations as they often fear the worse. The Sunstone helps by bringing the sparkle back to this side of their nature. It’s a stone that reminds them that they can own their power and present their boundaries without losing love or friendship.

Leo’s too with their roaring strong personality and chock full of confidence, the Sunstone is a natural match for those born under the Leo sign. Super big-hearted, soaked in comfort, and ever a sunny disposition is truly what marks Leo’s out from the crowd. Of course, the Sunstone shines a light on all the lovely personality traits of the Leo but also balances them out so they can nurture those lush leadership qualities and live a full and beautiful life.

If you want to know which stone is best suited to your own zodiac sign then take a look our guide to discovering the right gemstones for your astrological sign.

How to Use Sunstone

Check out our sunstone energy bracelet

• Wear to bring warmth to the soul
• Welcome in the home for positive energy

Let the golden rays of Sunstone fall into your life as you bring this positive stone into your life. Lending its guiding light, glimmers of glorious hope, and potent positivity there are so many benefits to having the Sunstone on hand or in your home. Whether you choose to brighten up a space with the tumbled glow of altar stones or if you pick the warmth of gemstone jewelry centering around Sunstone, you are sure to feel your mood lift and life begin to bloom as soon as this goldstone is close by. Take a glimpse at the ways you can bring the healing energy of Sunstone meaning into your world.

Home & Office 

Feng Shui magic and Sunstone go together in golden harmony. Bringing this bright luminous stone into your home is an easy way to lend light to a space that sometimes holds a gloomy energy. By having Sunstone over the threshold you are not only soaking the space in a sweeter sense of positivity but you are also helping to center spiritual energy and bring about clarity. Remember, the Vikings turned to Sunstone for its guiding properties so by placing it in the office, creative studio, or anywhere you feel like you could use some extra clarity, the Sunstone is a sublime offering.

Jewelry

Bronzed and gold and splashed with shades of orange and yellow, the Sunstone is simply reminiscent of long hazy afternoons, fragrant wheatfields shimmering beneath the sky, and beautiful barefoot living when dreamy days seem to last forever. By choosing a Sunstone bracelet, crystal ring, or pretty pendant you can soak up all the benefits of having this soul-stirring stone pressed right against the skin. Let the healing vibrations, positive glow, and optimistic spirit sink right down and reach every darkened corner by offering an instant connection.

For those seeking stones that infuse the Sunstone with even more self-healing power, you can match this healing crystal with the element of Moonstone to honor both elements and energize our own duality of shadow and light. You can also look to the protective qualities of Hematite or dark as night Obsidian. Those wanting to layer on even more lush positivity can also choose the glow of Carnelian, the sunny energy of Citrine, or the softer than light version of Selenite. Splashed with open and positive energy this may also be an amazing chance to nudge the crown chakra into complete cleansing, especially when paired with the serene style of Amethyst. Those wanting to add even more personal power to their third eye chakra can choose Labradorite or other more mystical stones.

How to Cleanse your Gemstone

• Cleanse with water or by smudging
• Charge with sun or moonlight

Even with its bright and bountiful personality, it is still important to keep your Sunstone cleansed and charged and splashed in the spirit of good vibrations. All crystals work closely with energy and this means that your crystal may be busy soaking up toxic moods and darkened thoughts. Rather than let it sit with this heaviness for extended periods of time, you can keep your stone light and illustrious by giving it a regular cleanse and charging it back up to a fabulous fizz. You can cleanse your Sunstone by smudging it with a little sweetgrass, sage, or whatever your favorite healing herb is. You can also keep it in the company of crystal clusters so it has a place to send that energy or you can run it under a flow of gentle warm water to instantly wash those bad vibes away. If you want to charge your Sunstone up you can leave it in a slant of sunlight. It comes as no surprise to hear that Sunstone adores the fiery rays. In the winter or times without a glut of golden sun, you can also charge by moonlight for balance or by burying your sunstone in a little rich earth.

Geological Properties

Sunstone Rock Properties

Chemical Classification	Feldspar mineral
Chemical Formula	(Na,Ca)[Al(Si,Al)Si2O8]
Crystal System	Triclinic
Color	Orange, red, brown, yellow, green, colorless
Streak	White
Luster	Vitreous to subadamantine
Transparency	Transparent to translucent
Occurrence	India, Norway, Russia, United States
Formation	Igneous and metamorphic rocks, in pegmatites and alluvial deposits
Diaphaneity	Transparent to translucent
Cleavage	Poor/none
Mohs Hardness	6 - 6.5
Specific Gravity	2.55 - 2.75
Diagnostic Properties	Color, aventurescence
Chemical Composition	A potassium feldspar (oligoclase or orthoclase)
Crystal System	Triclinic
Optical Properties	Biaxial
Refractive Index	1.525 - 1.574
Birefringence	0.004 - 0.010
2V angle	10 - 42°
Dispersion	0.007
Other Characteristics	Aventurescence due to tiny inclusions of copper or hematite

Final Thoughts on Sunstone

Sunstone is one of those crystals that is brimming with endless energy and ever ready to pick you up into positive power. Just like the warming kiss of the sun on your face, having this stone close by instantly rejuvenates the spirit. Staying grounded, having the zest for tackling all of life’s intricate ups and downs, forging sweet nurturing relationships and bringing about good fortune – sunlight is the most precious gold to be found across all the lands and it's perfectly captured in the Sunstone crystal.

What are your thoughts on the shimmering power of Sunstone? Does it warm your heart? Share your thoughts with us in the comments and lets up our enjoyment of life.

Sunstone FAQs

What does Sunstone do?

Sunstone is a warm and bright stone filled with positive energy, personal power, and enriched with a can-do attitude. For those who seek a healing gemstone that helps to motivate, raise your sense of worthiness, and brighten darker moods, the Sunstone can be your golden glow.

What is Sunstone good for?

Sunstone is good for brightening moods, bringing emotional and spiritual warmth, and helping to motivate those who stand in its light. It can also be good for helping the body deal with rheumatism and for helping balance those who struggle with seasonal affective disorder. Emotionally it brings optimism and raises self worth. Spiritually it connects with the sacral chakra and can stir up with chi.

Where to find Sunstones in oregon?

Sunstones can be found in many places but one such place is Oregon in the USA. You can find Sunstones in the Rabbit Basin in South Central Oregon. There you will find the Oregon Sunstone Public Collection Area which allows visitors to seek their own Sunstones. You can also find them at the Spectrum Sunstone Mine.

How to cleanse Sunstone?

You can cleanse Sunstone by holding it under running water for a short period of time so it can wash away any negative buildup. You can also cleanse your gem by smudging it with sweetgrass, sage, or any other healing herb. You can also place your Sunstone in the presence of other cleansing gems like selenite and clear quartz.

How to use a viking Sunstone?

The viking Sunstone has never been nailed down but some scientists believe it was a calcite stone because you need a crystal that can depolarize light to make it work. When light passed through the Sunstone it would split into two paths. By using the light in the sky and changing the crystals orientation until both pathways of light are of an equal brightness you could determine the sun's position in the sky.

What is Sunstone used for?

Sunstone can be used for many things - it is an incredible healing stone that works across the physical, spiritual, and emotional plains. It can be used to give you strength and power during darker days as it fills you with positive light. It can also be used to clear blockages from the sacral chakra. Sunstone can be used to bring power back to your being and to manifest all that you want.

What is a Sunstone crystal?

Sunstone is a feldspar crystal and scores a 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. It comes in sunny shades of gold, red, orange, and brown and is known for its positive energy and helping to instill a sense of hope and comfort in those who wear it. The Sunstone crystal can also be used for cleansing the sacral chakra and as it carries the energy of the sun it can be life giving in vitality and themes of freedom.

How to charge Sunstone?

Sunstone can be charged by leaving it in the presence of sunlight. Letting it sit on the windowsill on a sunny day for a short while can charge it back up to its brilliant bright fizz. We don’t suggest leaving any crystal in direct sunlight for long periods of time but Sunstone will enjoy a little light warmth. On darker days, you can leave it in the moonlight or bury it in soil.

What is a viking Sunstone made of?

It is widely believed that the viking Sunstone is actually a calcite crystal. In the norse stories, this Sunstone was used for navigation to help the vikings cross the seas and explore new lands. A calcite crystal is thought to be the stone because this gem can depolraize light meaning that it would still be able to place the sun even during cloudy days.

What color is Sunstone?

As the name suggests, Sunstone is radiant with colors that capture the essence of long days, golden evenings, and warmer weather. It comes in colors that range from orange to gold, yellow, red, and brown.

Where does Sunstone come from?

Sunstone comes from many far flung corners of the globe. It can be found in Norway, Greece, Russia, the USA, Canada, and India too. The best Sunstones are said to come from Oregon in the USA and the area even has places where visitors can find their own Sunstones.

How is Sunstone formed?

Sunstone is formed in the wild energy and pressure of a volcanic eruption. When the lava cracks or breaks after a long period of time, the Sunstone is released and can then be mined. While the Sunstone is being formed it also brings with it inclusions of hematite, pyrite, goethite, and other minerals which lend it that glossy glitter shine.

How to use a Sunstone?

There are many ways you can welcome the warm energy of Sunstone. You can wear Sunstone jewelry to keep yourself surrounded in positive energy and to keep motivation and energy levels running high. You can welcome it into the home to keep negative energy at bay and to keep your space creative and connected.

How to use Sunstone?

There are many ways to use the Sunstone crystal. Wearing it as jewelry is one of the best ways of ensuring it has direct contact with the skin so it can share all that positive energy and keep your own vibes infused with energy, abundance, and luck. You can also use Sunstone to cleanse your sacral chakra by placing it on that part of the body while meditating. You can place Sunstone in your home or workspace to encourage creativity and abundance.

Is Sunstone a natural stone?

Yes, Sunstone is a natural stone, it is not man made. Sunstone is formed in the earth's crust or as a result of volcanic lava. It is made of the elements of the earth and also has inclusions of other minerals too such as pyrite, hematite, goethite, and sometimes in rare cases copper. Sunstone brings its natural energy which is centered around joy, abundance, positivity, and manifesting desire.

Is Sunstone a quartz?

Sunstone is not a variety of quartz. Sunstone is considered to be a feldspar crystal and contains Hematite and Goethite. It's the inclusion of these elements that gives the stone its light playing properties and helps it to refract light and look iridescent.

Is Sunstone a real gemstone?

Yes, Sunstone is a very real gemstone and a very old one. It is usually found in lava or the earth's crust as a result of high heat and pressure. With its golden and rosy color schemes and its glittery finish, Sunstone is a prime example of how Mother Nature can craft great beauty from chaos. Sunstone brings heat, warmth, light, and vitality with it.

Is Sunstone man made?

No, Sunstone is not man made. It is a natural mineral that is formed and mined in the earth's crust. It is a kind of plagioclase feldspar that comes in natural shades of gold, red, orange, and brown. This gem also has inclusions that can range from hematite to pyrite and goethite and occasionally copper which give it a glittery look.

Is Sunstone rare?

Sunstone is a beautiful gem that brings energy, warmth, and wonder to all who see it. It is considered to be a relatively rare gemstone and it has a varying price that is dependent on cut, color, and clarity of the stone. The rarest and most sought after versions are said to be the Oregon Sunstone as it can be found in transparent colors which is quite rare.

What are Sunstones used for?

Sunstones are used for bringing positivity, personal power, and abundance into your life. For those who struggle with darker days -either in the winter months or just feeling sluggish and low, the Sunstone can be an amazing stone to pick you back up. It can also be used for clearing the sacral chakra and for helping the body to heal and overcome pain.

What are the properties of Sunstone?

Sunstone is a gemstone centered around abundance and joy. It’s a crystal filled with positive energy and works as a magnet to attract good things towards all those who keep it close by. Physically Sunstone helps with seasonal affective disorder, aches and pains, and helps the body heal. Emotionally it empowers you and helps you rise in your confidence. Spiritually it helps you to awaken your chi and cleanse your sacral chakra.

What chakra is Sunstone good for?

Sunstone works beautifully with the sacral chakra. It shares those golden reds and oranges that are so alive in our lower chakra. The sacral chakra is all about welcoming that confidence, stirring up our life forces and inner chi, and boosting creativity and manifesting desire. When we clear our sacral chakra we overcome fear and step into our fullest power.

What does a Sunstone look like?

Sunstone is resplendent in its golden shades of red, orange, brown, and yellow. It has a sparkle to it thanks to iridescence and a play of light beneath the surface. Inclusions beneath the surface give it a glittery look and a rare reflection.

What does Sunstone represent?

As the name would suggest, Sunstone represents the sun that brightens our sky and warms our skin. This precious glittery gem is all about pulling us through darker times, manifesting hope and abundance, and raising our levels of confidence and creativity. It keeps negative energy at bay and brings themes of comfort and preservation to those who struggle.

What is a Sunstone used for?

Sunstone can be used for brightening bad days, strengthening your power, and shifting blockages from the sacral chakra. It brings clarity, vitality and life giving magic to those who need an extra burst of brightness.

What is a viking Sunstone?

A viking Sunstone is thought to have been the calcite crystal. It was a stone that the vikings would use as a natural compass to help them tell where the sun was in the sky. Using a crystal that could depolarize light, the vikings would have been able to place the sun and use the stone as a navigation tool.

What is an Oregon Sunstone?

Oregon Sunstones are said to be some of the most spectacular examples of Sunstone out there. These gems are feldspar crystals that formed in lava from a volcano that erupted over thirteen million years ago. The lava was then covered by a lake for thousands of years until the lake eventually dried up. The Sunstones came into sight after weather and time eroded the lava.

What is black Sunstone?

Black Sunstone is a relatively new gem that has been found in Southern India. It shares some similar qualities to Sunstone but as it has a black coloring it also has big protective energy and is a dab hand at clearing out negativity. As it's such a new stone, research is still being done to ascertain what kind of gem it is and whether it is in fact gray aventurine or a style of quartz.

What is Sunstone made of?

Sunstone is a feldspar crystal and is also known as a plagioclase. It has a glittery or spangled coloring to it when held at certain angles and this is from the inclusion of minerals like hematite and pyrite or goethite beneath the surface. Occasionally copper can also be found beneath the surface of a Sunstone.