metamorphic
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Fuchsite mica
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Varying shades of green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Known for 'aventurescence' (a metallic glitter).
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Varying shades of green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Varying shades of green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Known for 'aventurescence' (a metallic glitter).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of sandstone into quartzite, where high heat and pressure fuse mineral grains. The green color comes from inclusions of chromium-rich fuchsite mica that align during formation.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for jewelry, cabochons, ornamental carvings, aquarium gravel, and within the gemstone collection market. It is also popularly used in spiritual or metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura,' meaning 'by chance,' originally referring to the accidental discovery of goldstone (Italian glass) that mimicked the natural stone's glitter.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its green color and the characteristic internal glitter (aventurescence) when turned under light. Found commonly in India, Brazil, and Russia. Unlike Jade, it often has a grainier or quartz-like texture.
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