mineral

Red Aventurine (Strawberry Quartz / Sunstone Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide with Hematite/Goethite inclusions (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-pink, brownish-red, to terracotta; Luster: Vitreous to shimmering (aventurescence); Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Reddish-pink, brownish-red, to terracotta
Luster: Vitreous to shimmering (aventurescence)

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

Explore Red Aventurine (Strawberry Quartz / Sunstone Quartz) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or igneous geological environments where quartz crystallizes in the presence of iron oxide minerals like hematite or goethite, giving it a distinctive reddish tone and sparkling inclusions.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a decorative gemstone, for tumbled stones, lapidary carvings, bead jewelry, and by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The aventurescence effect comes from microscopic platy inclusions of iron minerals that reflect light, creating a glittery or shimmering metallic sparkle within the quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its quartz hardness (scratches glass), reddish hue, and subtle internal metallic reflections. Commonly found in India, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

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Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary