mineral

Aventurine

Silicon Dioxide with Fuchsite inclusions (SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Known for aventurescence (a glistening effect).

Hardness: 6
Color: Green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Known for aventurescence (a glistening effect).

Formation & geological history

Forms in metamorphic rocks like phyllites and schists where silica-rich fluids cool or where quartz undergoes metamorphism alongside mica minerals like fuchsite.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry, lapidary art, carvings, beads, and as a popular stone for crystal collecting and metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to an 18th-century accidental discovery of aventurine glass. The dark green specimen here likely contains higher concentrations of chromium-rich mica.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic green color and 'sparkly' interior reflections (aventurescence) when turned under light. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia.