mineral

Green Aventurine

Aventurine Quartz (SiO2 with inclusions)

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Light to dark green with a shimmering effect; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69

Hardness: 6
Color: Light to dark green with a shimmering effect
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Light to dark green with a shimmering effect; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69

Formation & geological history

Formed in magmatic and metamorphic environments where silicon dioxide cools and crystallizes. The green color is primarily derived from inclusions of Fuchsite mica.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochon), decorative carvings, and widely sold as a lapidary material for tumbling.

Geological facts

The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to the accidental discovery of aventurine glass. The shimmering effect is known as 'aventurescence'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct green color and the presence of tiny sparkling inclusions when moved under light. Found in India, Brazil, and parts of Russia. Often confused with jade, but harder and features shimmering mica flakes.

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