
mineral
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chromium-bearing Fuchsite
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. Features characteristic 'aventurescence' (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. Features characteristic 'aventurescence' (shimmering effect).
Formation & geological history
Formed as a sedimentary rock (sandstone) through regional metamorphism that recrystalizes quartz grains into a tough, interlocking network, with Fuchsite mica inclusions providing the green color.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for ornamental carvings, jewelry (cabochons and beads), landscaping, and as a popular stone for metaphysical collecting.
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 natural mineral resembles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its grainy texture, green color, and subtle metallic shimmer. Commonly found in India, Brazil, Russia, and Austria. Collectors should look for even color distribution and a strong shimmering effect.
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