metamorphic
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fuchsite inclusions
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Mottled green and white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence (shimmer); Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Mottled green and white
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence (shimmer)
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Mottled green and white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence (shimmer); Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed as a metamorphic quartzite. High pressure and heat cause quartz to recrystallize alongside chromium-rich mica (fuchsite), which gives it the green speckling and shimmering effect.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts, jewelry, decorative carvings, beads, and metaphysical collectibles. It is also used as a landscape stone in larger rough forms.
Geological facts
The 'aventurescence' effect is caused by tiny mica platelets reflecting light. Aventurine is often called the 'Stone of Opportunity' in metaphysical circles and was historically used by Tibetans to improve nearsightedness and represent the vitality of the planet.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its grainy, sugary quartzite texture combined with a green shimmer that doesn't scrub off. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Collectors should look for even color distribution and strong shimmering effects.
More like this
