Rainbow Lattice Sunstone Palmstone (1)

What is a 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.

In this particular palmstone, the lattice structure is very fine and best observed under magnification. However, even to the naked eye, you can tell the entire stone is jam-packed with rainbow hematite blades which create a mesmerizing sheen.