mineral

Green Aventurine

Aventurine Quartz (SiO2 with inclusions of Fuchsite)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale to deep green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69. Known for 'aventurescence' (a shimmering effect caused by platy inclusions).

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale to deep green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a sedimentary or metamorphic rock, aventurine is a form of quartzite. The green color and shimmering quality are the result of chromium-rich mica (fuchsite) inclusions becoming trapped in the quartz as it undergoes pressure and heat.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for ornamental carvings, semi-precious jewelry (beads, cabochons), tumbled stones for collecting, and lapidary art.

Geological facts

The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance'. This refers to the accidental discovery of 'goldstone' (aventurine glass) in the 18th century, which the natural mineral was later named after because of its similar appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic green 'shimmer' when rotated under light (aventurescence) and its ability to scratch glass. It is commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Beginners should distinguish it from jade, which is tougher and lacks the plate-like mica reflections.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral