mineral
Green aventurine pendant
Quartz variety, SiO₂, colored mainly by fuchsite or other chromium-bearing mica inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque blue-green to green, with a vitreous-to-waxy polish and typically subtle aventurescence (sparkling inclusions). Aventurine is microcrystalline quartz with no obvious cleavage; specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque blue-green to green, with a vitreous-to-waxy polish and typically subtle aventurescence (sparkling inclusions). Aventurine is microcrystalline quartz with no obvious cleavage; specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize as quartzite or chalcedony containing mica inclusions, commonly during metamorphic or hydrothermal processes. The pendant is cut and polished human-processed geological material; its precise age and source cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and inexpensive jewelry; the metal fitting is manufactured and not geological.
Geological facts
Natural aventurine usually shows irregular color and tiny reflective flecks, whereas dyed stones may have unnaturally uniform color. The pictured specimen appears to be a polished, elongated pendant.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include India, Brazil, Russia, Tanzania, and China. Confirm with a hardness test on an inconspicuous area, inspection for mica sparkle, and testing for dye; do not scratch valuable jewelry.
