metamorphic
Green Quartz (Aventurine or Green Quartzite)
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with mica inclusions
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Dull to forest green with white/tan speckles; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Fine-grained, microcrystalline; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Dull to forest green with white/tan speckles
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Dull to forest green with white/tan speckles; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Fine-grained, microcrystalline; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. The green color is typically caused by inclusions of fuchsite mica or other silicate minerals during hydrothermal processes.
Uses & applications
Used for carvings, tumbled stones, jewelry beads, metaphysical practices, and decorative landscaping.
Geological facts
While often mistaken for jade, green quartz is much harder and has a different crystal structure. High-quality specimens with 'aventurescence' (shimmer) are known as Aventurine.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife and its lack of obvious cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds or areas with metamorphic activity, especially in India, Brazil, and Russia.
