mineral

Green Aventurine (or Green Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Fuchsite

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to medium green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. It often displays aventurescence (a shimmering effect).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale to medium green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks or magmatic environments where silica-rich fluids cool. The green color is typically caused by inclusions of green chrome-mica known as fuchsite within the quartz matrix. Most deposits are millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a popular stone in the metaphysical market.

Geological facts

The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to the accidental discovery of aventurine glass (goldstone) in the 18th century, which the natural stone resembles.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic green color and shimmering inclusions. It is found in abundance in India, Brazil, Russia, and Austria. Unlike emerald, it is much harder and lacks perfect cleavage.

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