mineral

Green aventurine beads

Quartz (SiO₂), typically green quartzite/aventurine with fuchsite mica inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually Mohs hardness 6.5–7; translucent to opaque green, with a vitreous to subtly aventurescent luster and granular quartz crystal structure. The pictured material is polished and drilled into rondelle beads; cleavage is absent, and specific gravity is about 2.6–2.7.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when quartz-rich material recrystallizes or veins develop with chromium-bearing fuchsite mica, producing the green color and occasional sparkly effect. Common sources include India, Brazil, Russia, and Tanzania; ages vary with the host rock, generally Precambrian to younger.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, beads, carvings, ornaments, and decorative stone; it is also sold as a collectible lapidary material. Common commercial strands are generally modestly priced.

Geological facts

Green aventurine is often marketed as “Indian jade,” but it is quartz rather than jadeite or nephrite. Strong glitter indicates abundant platy mica inclusions, while uniform green material may be dyed or treated.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its green quartz-like body, hardness, translucency, and mica glitter; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel blade. Approximate value: $10–$40 per strand for common beads, with fine natural, strongly aventurescent material sometimes $50–$150.