Rainbow Lattice Sunstone Palmstone (2)

What is Rainbow Lattice Sunstone?

Sunstone is a feldspar containing hematite inclusions that create a sparkling, iridescent effect. In Rainbow Lattice Sunstone, the hematite form as thin blades arranged in a lattice-like mesh — a rare structure, especially those from Australia.

Current research suggests that Rainbow Lattice Sunstones are in the rarer orthoclase variety — a potassium-rich feldspar. Hematite in these types, form usually as blades, but speck-like forms commonly seen in other sunstones (made of sodium-based feldspar, oligoclase) can also occur.

Confusingly, similar material to these Rainbow Lattice Sunstones from Tanzania is often marketed as “Black Sunstone Moonstone". It displays a blue flash with scattered hematite specks. Based on available research, this material is more consistent with peristerite — a sodium-rich feldspar often mistaken for moonstone.

However, after some hefty google search, I found that these unique stones from Tanzania can appear as both orthoclase and oligoclase feldspar. Depending on how and which part was cut, it can display the blue flash of a Peristerite and/or the Rainbow Lattice Sunstone side! 

Stones with distinct hematite blades like this piece, align with Rainbow Lattice Sunstone. These stones may also display adularescence, a soft silvery sheen like moonstone.