metamorphic
Aventurine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fuchsite inclusions
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale green with silvery-green shimmer; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Aventurescence: Platy inclusions create a glistening effect.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Pale green with silvery-green shimmer
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale green with silvery-green shimmer; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.69; Aventurescence: Platy inclusions create a glistening effect.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of sandstone into quartzite, where mineral inclusions like fuchsite mica are trapped within the quartz matrix. Most deposits date back to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and widely used in the metaphysical crystal community as a 'stone of opportunity'.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to the accidental discovery of aventurine glass or goldstone in the 18th century. The natural mineral was named after the man-made glass.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct 'schiller' or glittery metallic luster when rotated under light. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Specimens are usually opaque to translucent green.
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