mineral
Tumbled green aventurine and/or serpentine
Quartz variety aventurine (SiO₂) and possibly serpentine-group minerals
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPolished translucent to opaque green pebbles with vitreous-to-waxy luster; aventurine is Mohs 6.5–7, while serpentine is softer at about 2.5–5.5. Rounded shapes are human-tumbled, and the visible glitter or fibrous mottling would help distinguish them.
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Physical properties
Polished translucent to opaque green pebbles with vitreous-to-waxy luster; aventurine is Mohs 6.5–7, while serpentine is softer at about 2.5–5.5. Rounded shapes are human-tumbled, and the visible glitter or fibrous mottling would help distinguish them.
Formation & geological history
Green aventurine forms when quartz crystallizes with fuchsite mica or other inclusions, commonly in hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks; serpentine forms by hydration of ultramafic rocks. Geological ages vary by deposit.
Uses & applications
Used for inexpensive beads, carvings, cabochons, décor, and lapidary practice; not generally used as structural stone in this tumbled form.
Geological facts
Aventurine’s green color commonly comes from chromium-rich fuchsite, producing aventurescence—tiny reflective flashes. Some commercial “green aventurine” batches are actually dyed quartz or serpentine.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include India, Brazil, Russia, and China. Test cautiously: aventurine scratches glass, whereas serpentine usually does not; a loupe may reveal mica sparkle or serpentine’s cloudy, fibrous texture.
