metamorphic

Likely green aventurine quartzite

Aventurine quartz (quartzite), SiO₂ with mica/fuchsite inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 7 Mohs; mottled green-brown color with glittery aventurescence, vitreous to sugary luster, granular interlocking quartz crystals, and no obvious cleavage. The green color typically comes from fuchsite mica or chlorite inclusions.

Identified September 4, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when quartz-rich sandstone is metamorphosed and recrystallized, commonly during Precambrian to Paleozoic mountain-building; exact age cannot be determined from the photograph. Major sources include India, Brazil, Russia, Tanzania, and Austria.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, beads, cabochons, carvings, countertops, and tumbled specimens; its toughness also suits decorative aggregate. This appears to be a small rough or broken specimen rather than gem-grade material.

Geological facts

Aventurescence is caused by light reflecting from tiny plate-like mineral inclusions. The specimen could also be green jasper or altered quartzite, since visual identification alone is not definitive.

Field identification & locations

Check for glassy quartz grains, glitter under direct light, and scratch resistance against ordinary steel or glass; laboratory microscopy or chemical testing is more reliable. Common rough pieces are usually worth about $2–$15; attractive polished or gem-quality material may bring $20–$100+.