mineral

Strawberry Quartz (Red Aventurine)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Goethite inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-red to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or granitic pegmatites; the color comes from tiny inclusions of iron oxide minerals like lepidocrocite or hematite that occur during the crystallization of the quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, lapidary arts (carvings and cabochons), and by mineral collectors. It is also popular in holistic practices.

Geological facts

True Strawberry Quartz is quite rare and often confused with Red Aventurine, which contains mica inclusions. Many specimens on the market are actually master-melt glass (cherry quartz), but natural specimens show unique, needle-like mineral inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for 'sparkles' or 'shimmer' (aventurescence) or distinct iron needle inclusions under magnification. Commonly found in Brazil, Russia, and Kazakhstan.