metamorphic
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fuchsite inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale to medium green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Pale to medium green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Pale to medium green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic environments where quartz-rich sediments are subjected to high pressure and temperature, causing recrystallization. The green color comes from inclusions of chromium-rich Fuchsite mica.
Uses & applications
Used widely for ornamental carvings, polished cabochons for jewelry, garden stones, and landscape decoration. Also popular in metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to accidental discovery of aventurine glass in the 18th century, which this mineral resembles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'aventurescence'—the shimmering effect caused by light reflecting off tiny platy mica inclusions within the quartz. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia.
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