metamorphic
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chromium-rich Fuchsite mica inclusions
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale to medium green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Aventurescence: Metallic glitter (shimmer) due to mica flakes.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Pale to medium green
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale to medium green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Aventurescence: Metallic glitter (shimmer) due to mica flakes.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a metamorphic quartzite where pressure and heat recrystallized quartz sandstones containing mica flakes. This process gives it its trademark glitter when mica particles align during crystallization.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry making (cabochons and beads), ornamental figurines, tumbled stones, and as a popular metaphysical or "healing" crystal.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' is derived from the Italian word 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', which originally referred to the accidental 18th-century discovery of Goldstone (aventurine glass) in Venice.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct green color and internal 'glitter' or sparkles. Commonly found in India (the largest producer), Brazil, Russia, and Tanzania. Unlike emerald or jade, it will often show plate-like shimmering inclusions under low magnification.
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