metamorphic
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz) with Fuchsite inclusions (SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent to opaque green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Displays aventurescence (a shimmering effect).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Translucent to opaque green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent to opaque green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69. Displays aventurescence (a shimmering effect).
Formation & geological history
Formed as a result of the metamorphism of quartz-rich sedimentary rocks (sandstone) into quartzite, where inclusions of mica (fuchsite) crystallize simultaneously, giving the rock its green color and shimmer.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, figurines, and as a popular stone for collectors and metaphysical practitioners.
Geological facts
Aventurine is named from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', which originally referred to a chance discovery of 'aventurine glass' in the 18th century that looked similar to this natural stone.
Field identification & locations
Look for a grainy quartz texture with flecks of green mica. It is most commonly found in India (the primary source for green), Brazil, and Russia. It can be distinguished from jade by its lower toughness and shimmering mica inclusions.
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