Oregon Sunstone
The Sunlit Gem of Self-Worth
Also known as: Plush Diamonds, Sunstone Labradorite
About the stone
Oregon sunstone is a copper-bearing variety of labradorite feldspar found in ancient basalt flows, ranging from nearly colorless and yellow to red and green; tiny copper platelets can produce a glittering effect called “schiller.” Indigenous people collected and likely traded it before modern mineralogical reports, so it has no single documented discoverer; a deposit near Plush was reported around 1908, and Oregon designated it the state gemstone in 1987. Principal sources include the Plush–Rabbit Basin area in Lake County and the Ponderosa Mine in Harney County. Historical and descriptive names include “Plush diamonds,” “aventurine feldspar,” and “sunstone labradorite”—despite the nickname, it is not diamond. Modern crystal lore associates it with joy, confidence, independence, and leadership.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Oregon Sunstone is a plagioclase feldspar, a sodium-calcium aluminum silicate in the labradorite range, approximately (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)4O8, with tiny copper inclusions that create its schiller.
- Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Clear to peach, orange, pink and red, with a glittering coppery sparkle.
- Specific gravity: 2.62-2.65
- Refractive index: 1.525-1.548
Metaphysical data
Oregon Sunstone, a feldspar sparkling with copper inclusions, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to brighten the chakras, lift heavy emotions and help the real self shine.
Energizing and Cleansing Energy
- Oregon Sunstone energizes, brightens, cleanses and purifies the chakras, and harnesses the regenerative powers of the sun in a joyful, light-inspiring way.
- It is linked with benevolent gods and with luck and good fortune, and many people carry it as a cheerful good-luck charm.
Emotional Healing
- Oregon Sunstone is said to lift out heavy or repressed emotions and transmute them, making space for lighter feelings and a brighter outlook.
- It reverses feelings of failure and increases self-worth and confidence, and is regarded as effective against procrastination, seasonal sadness and depression.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Oregon Sunstone is believed to energize, brighten and cleanse the chakras, bringing the whole energy system into a lively and balanced state.
- The source lore names no single chakra for it, which suits a stone thought to benefit all the energy centers together.
Zodiac Associations
- Oregon Sunstone is not strongly tied to a particular zodiac sign in the source lore, and it may be used by anyone seeking more light.
- No numerology number is given for it, but its sun-like warmth is often chosen by those who want a fresh start.
Spiritual Growth
- Oregon Sunstone heightens intuition and allows the real self to shine through happily, a good theme for anyone learning to live authentically.
- It is extremely useful for removing 'hooks' from other people, supporting self-empowerment and the confidence to say no.
Physical Healing
- Crystals are a traditional wellness practice and not a substitute for professional medical advice, especially for joint pain, rheumatism or depression, which need qualified care.
- In crystal tradition it is said to harmonize the organs, stimulate self-healing, regulate the autonomic nervous system and relieve cartilage problems and general aches.
Care and handling
Oregon Sunstone is a feldspar with a hardness of about 6 to 6.5 and cleavage, so it can chip or split if struck. Clean it with a soft cloth and lukewarm, mildly soapy water, and dry it well. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, acids and sudden temperature changes, and protect the surface from scratches, since they reduce the sparkle. Store it in a soft pouch apart from harder stones.
Individual experiences with Oregon Sunstone vary, and its qualities are traditional beliefs rather than proven facts. Use it mindfully as a bright, cheerful companion for confidence and good boundaries, and seek proper support for your health.