mineral
Strawberry Quartz (Red Aventurine)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Goethite inclusions
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or granitic pegmatites; the color comes from tiny inclusions of iron oxide minerals like lepidocrocite or hematite that occur during the crystallization of the quartz.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, lapidary arts (carvings and cabochons), and by mineral collectors. It is also popular in holistic practices.
Geological facts
True Strawberry Quartz is quite rare and often confused with Red Aventurine, which contains mica inclusions. Many specimens on the market are actually master-melt glass (cherry quartz), but natural specimens show unique, needle-like mineral inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for 'sparkles' or 'shimmer' (aventurescence) or distinct iron needle inclusions under magnification. Commonly found in Brazil, Russia, and Kazakhstan.
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