mineral
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz) with Fuchsite inclusions (SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2AlSi3O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs. Color: Light to dark green. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Characterized by aventurescence (a shimmering effect).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Light to dark green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs. Color: Light to dark green. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Characterized by aventurescence (a shimmering effect).
Formation & geological history
Forms in metamorphic rocks such as phyllites and schists, or in hydrothermal veins. The green color is derived from inclusions of chrome-rich fuchsite mica. Primarily found in India, Brazil, and Russia.
Uses & applications
Widely used for ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons for jewelry, and as a popular pocket stone for crystal healing collectors.
Geological facts
The name 'Aventurine' comes from the Italian word 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to accidental 18th-century Venetian glass production that looked similar to this mineral.
Field identification & locations
Look for a grainy texture within the stone and a characteristic shimmer when turned under light. It is often confused with jade, but the mica inclusions are a key differentiator for aventurine.
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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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Mineral/Rock