mineral

Green Quartz (Prasiolite variant or Aventurine)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to olive green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale green to olive green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to olive green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal activity or as secondary deposits. Most natural green quartz is found near amethyst deposits that have undergone specific natural heat or radiation.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone, decorative carvings, and by crystal collectors for aesthetic and metaphysical properties.

Geological facts

Natural green quartz is quite rare; most 'Prasiolite' on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst or irradiated yellow quartz. True green quartz is sometimes called Vermarine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light green translucency and lack of visible inclusions common in aventurine. Commonly found in Brazil, USA (Arizona), and Namibia. Collectors should look for even color distribution.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral