metamorphic
Aventurine
Quartz containing inclusions of Fuchsite (SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2AlSi3O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 7 Mohs scale; Color: Green (due to Chromium in Fuchsite); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69; Identification features: Platy inclusions that cause an aventurescent shimmer.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs scale
- Color
- Green (due to Chromium in Fuchsite)
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs scale; Color: Green (due to Chromium in Fuchsite); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69; Identification features: Platy inclusions that cause an aventurescent shimmer.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of sandstone into quartzite, where high pressure and temperature cause recrystallization and the incorporation of mica minerals. Ages vary by deposit but often found in Precambrian or Paleozoic formations.
Uses & applications
Broadly used in the jewelry industry for cabochons and beads, as well as in ornamental carvings, aquariums, and metalinguistic/crystal healing collections.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura,' meaning 'by chance,' originally referring to an 18th-century accidental discovery of goldstone (a man-made glass that looks similar). Natural aventurine is one of the most popular forms of quartz found today.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for a grainy, quartz-like texture combined with a distinct green 'glitter' effect known as aventurescence. Primarily found in India (near Mysore and Madras), Brazil, Russia (Urals), and parts of the United States like Vermont.
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