mineral

Aventurine (Green)

Silicon Dioxide (Quartz variety) containing Fuchsite - SiO2 + K(Al,Cr)2AlSi3O10(OH)2

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Shimmering forest green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.64-2.69.

Hardness: 6
Color: Shimmering forest green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks and magmatic environments where tectonic pressure and heat crystallize silica. The green color and 'aventurescence' (shimmer) come from platy mineral inclusions of chrome-rich mica (fuchsite) trapped during growth.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, figurines, and as a popular 'healing stone' in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Its name comes from the Italian 'a ventura,' meaning 'by chance,' originally referring to an 18th-century Italian glassmaker who accidentally dropped metal filings into molten glass, creating a similar shimmering effect.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct metallic shimmer underneath a polished or waxy surface. It is commonly found in India, Brazil, Tanzania, and Russia. For collectors, look for a uniform distribution of mica flakes.

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