metamorphic
Green Quartzite (Aventurine variety)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Fuchsite
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to medium green with granular texture; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale to medium green with granular texture
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to medium green with granular texture; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. High heat and pressure causes quartz grains to recrystallize and fuse together. The green coloring typically comes from the presence of chromium-rich mica (fuchsite) during the metamorphic process.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative stone, for making jewelry (cabochons and beads), garden landscaping, and widely used in the metaphysical/holistic community as 'Aventurine'.
Geological facts
Quartzite is so hard and chemically resistant that it often forms the ridges and peaks of mountain ranges. While pure quartzite is white or grey, minor impurities can turn it various colors like pink, red, or green.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by steel, its sugary (saccharoidal) texture on fresh breaks, and its translucent to opaque green hue. Commonly found in metamorphic belts in Brazil, India, and parts of the United States (Appalachians).
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