mineral

Green Aventurine

Silicon Dioxide (Quartz) with Fuchsite inclusions (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Pale to dark green with a shimmering effect; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69

Hardness: 6
Color: Pale to dark green with a shimmering effect
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Green Aventurine in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks (schists) and igneous rocks (pegmatites) where quartz undergoes pressure and high temperatures, incorporating chromium-rich mica (fuchsite) which provides the green hue.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental carvings, jewelry (beads, cabochons), tumbled stones for collecting, and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

The name Aventurine comes from the Italian word 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance'. It refers to the shimmering effect known as aventurescence, caused by light reflecting off tiny platelets of mica within the stone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pale green color and the presence of 'aventurescence' (a metallic glitter). It is commonly found in India (the primary source), Brazil, and Russia. Collectors should look for even color and a strong shimmer.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic