mineral
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fuchsite inclusions
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Dull to bright green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69. It is characterized by platy inclusions that create a shimmering effect known as aventurescence.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Dull to bright green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Dull to bright green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69. It is characterized by platy inclusions that create a shimmering effect known as aventurescence.
Formation & geological history
Formed in magmatic and hydrothermal environments such as quartz veins and pegmatites. The green color is caused by trace amounts of chromium-bearing Fuchsite mica. Geological age varies by location, often millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Commonly used for lapidary work, jewelry making (beads, cabochons), tumbled stones for collectors, and ornamental carvings. It is also highly popular in metaphysical and crystal healing communities.
Geological facts
Aventurine is often mistaken for jade due to its green color, but it is much harder and lacks jade's characteristic fibrous structure. The name 'aventurine' comes from the Italian 'a ventura,' meaning 'by chance,' originally referring to the accidental discovery of aventurine glass.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'shimmering' aventurescent effect under light and its inability to be scratched by a steel blade. Found extensively in India, Brazil, Tanzania, and Russia. Collectors should look for uniform color and strong shimmering effects.
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