mineral
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chromium-rich Fuchsite mica
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale to dark green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69; Notable for its 'aventurescence' (shimmer) caused by platy inclusions.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Pale to dark green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Green Aventurine in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale to dark green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69; Notable for its 'aventurescence' (shimmer) caused by platy inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Metamorphic or igneous origin, typically formed in quartzites or magmatic environments where mica inclusions are captured during crystal growth. Significant deposits are found in Precambrian metamorphic terrains.
Uses & applications
Extensively used for ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons for jewelry, and as a popular 'healing stone' in metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura,' meaning 'by chance,' originally referring to the accidental discovery of goldstone glass in the 18th century which this mineral resembles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic green color and shimmering quality under direct light. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Unlike jade, it will scratch glass easily.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock