mineral

Red Aventurine

Quartz variety (SiO2 with Hematite/Goethite inclusions)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to pinkish-red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with a sparkly aventurescence; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: ~2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Reddish-brown to pinkish-red
Luster: Vitreous to waxy with a sparkly aventurescence

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to pinkish-red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with a sparkly aventurescence; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: ~2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in metamorphic rocks, pegmatites, and hydrothermal veins where quartz crystallizes with microscopic inclusions of hematite, goethite, or lepidocrocite, which impart the reddish hue and sparkling reflective effect.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in gemstone jewelry, decorative carvings, beads, polished cabochons, and as a popular specimen for rock tumbling and crystal collections.

Geological facts

The characteristic glinting effect in aventurine is known as 'aventurescence', caused by light reflecting off tiny platy mineral inclusions suspended within the quartz structure.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its quartz-like hardness, reddish tone, and subtle metallic or sparkling shimmer when rotated in bright light. Commonly found in India, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa.