Rock Identifier
Raw green aventurine (likely) (Quartzite dominated by quartz (SiO₂), colored by fuchsite mica or chlorite) — mineral
mineral

Raw green aventurine (likely)

Quartzite dominated by quartz (SiO₂), colored by fuchsite mica or chlorite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale green, granular and opaque with a dull-to-subvitreous luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no obvious cleavage, and quartz-rich crystalline texture. The rusty yellow-brown areas may be iron oxides or weathered matrix.

Identified More mineral
Explore Raw green aventurine (likely) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Pale green, granular and opaque with a dull-to-subvitreous luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no obvious cleavage, and quartz-rich crystalline texture. The rusty yellow-brown areas may be iron oxides or weathered matrix.

Formation & geological history

Usually forms when quartz-rich rock recrystallizes during metamorphism, with dispersed green mica or chlorite; deposits are commonly Precambrian to Paleozoic, depending on locality. The specimen appears naturally weathered and unpolished.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, carvings, cabochons, beads, and inexpensive gemstone material; massive pieces are sometimes used for decorative stone. Rough specimens generally have modest value.

Geological facts

Aventurine’s characteristic sparkle, called aventurescence, comes from reflective mica inclusions, though this piece appears mostly matte and may be green quartzite rather than classic gem-quality aventurine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its green quartz-rich granular texture, hardness, and possible mica glitter; distinguish it from softer green serpentine or copper minerals with a scratch test and streak test. Common sources include India, Brazil, Russia, and Tanzania.