mineral
Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide with Fuchsite inclusions (SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2AlSi3O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Sparkly appearance (aventurescence).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Aventurine in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Sparkly appearance (aventurescence).
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic rocks and magmatic environments where mica and quartz are under high pressure. The green color comes from tiny mica flakes (fuchsite) trapped within the quartz grain matrix.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, figurines, and as a popular stone for gem collectors and metaphysical enthusiasts.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to accidental discovery of aventurine glass in the 18th century. Most green aventurine is sourced from India.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic 'aventurescence'—a shimmering effect caused by platy mineral inclusions. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Used as a budget-friendly alternative to jade.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous