mineral

Green Aventurine

Silicon Dioxide (Quartz with Fuchsite inclusions), SiO2

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to translucent green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69. This specimen appears to be a tumbled or polished cube.

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

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks and magmatic environments where silica-rich fluids cool. The green color comes from inclusions of chromium-rich mica called fuchsite.

Uses & applications

Widely used for ornamental carvings, jewelry beads, tumbled stones, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or mosaics. Highly valued in metaphysical circles as a 'stone of opportunity'.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its quartz-like hardness and 'aventurescence' (a shimmering effect caused by platy inclusions). Commonly sourced from India, Brazil, and Russia. Collectors can identify it in the field by its distinct green hue and lack of cleavage compared to fluorite.

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