mineral
Sunstone Quartz / Aventurine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Transparent to translucent with golden-brown or metallic shimmering inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Transparent to translucent with golden-brown or metallic shimmering inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments where quartz crystallizes and incorporates tiny plate-like inclusions such as goethite, lepidocrocite, or hematite.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for making jewelry, cabochons, carved gemstones, and as a collector's specimen.
Geological facts
The glittering effect is known as aventurescence, which is caused by the reflection of light from minute, evenly distributed mineral flakes trapped inside the quartz matrix.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by the distinctive sparkly metallic inclusions suspended within clear or milky quartz. Commonly sourced from India, Brazil, and Russia.
