Rock Identifier
Green Aventurine (Aventurine Quartz (SiO2 with inclusions)) — mineral
mineral

Green Aventurine

Aventurine Quartz (SiO2 with inclusions)

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Translucent to opaque green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Feature: Aventurescence (shimmering effect).

Hardness
7 Mohs
Color
Translucent to opaque green
Luster
Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Translucent to opaque green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Feature: Aventurescence (shimmering effect).

Formation & geological history

Forms in metamorphic rocks such as phyllites and schists, or in hydrothermal veins, where it develops as quartz with silicate inclusions like fuchsite green mica.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in lapidary work for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, aquarium gravel, and as a popular stone for collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

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.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic green color and shimmering 'spangles' under light. Frequently found in India, Brazil, and parts of Russia. Often confused with jade but is much harder and lacks jade's texture.