
mineral
Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Fuchsite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Green (due to Chromium-rich mica); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Green (due to Chromium-rich mica)
- 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); Color: Green (due to Chromium-rich mica); Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic rocks and igneous environments where silica-rich fluids cool and crystallize, often incorporating mica flakes that create the aventurescence effect.
Uses & applications
Mainly used for ornamental purposes, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and as a popular stone in the metaphysical and gemstone collecting community.
Geological facts
The name 'aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to Italian glass made by accidentally dropping copper filings into molten glass.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic 'aventurescence' (a metallic glitter) and grainy quartz texture. Common in India, Brazil, and Russia. Beginners can use the hardness test (it will scratch glass).
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous