Aventurine
Aventurine – natural stone
Aventurine is a rare mineral belonging to the quartz family and the silicate group. Aventurine stone is also known as Indian jade and aventurine quartz. Its name comes from the Italian word “a ventura”, which means by chance, referring to the fact that this mineral was discovered by coincidence. Aventurine mineral never occurs in the form of well-formed crystals; it is most often found in compact or granular aggregates. Natural aventurine can be found in India, Russia, USA, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt and also in Poland – in the Izera Mountains. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is 7, but it can vary due to the presence of inclusions of other minerals that lower the hardness of the stone. Numerous inclusions in the composition of aventurine cause it to sometimes be classified not as a mineral but as a rock consisting of mica and quartz. Aventurine stones are characterized by white or gray streaks, shell-like fractures and a vitreous luster.
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Aventurine – color
The most popular color variety of aventurine is green, but due to the inclusion of other minerals, it can also be found in other colors such as red, blue, brown, orange, or yellow. A characteristic feature of aventurine is the phenomenon of aventurescence, which involves shimmering. The effect visible on the surface of the stone is caused by the presence of mineral flakes that disperse under the influence of light, creating sparkling reflections. The final color of aventurine depends on the type and amount of inclusions of other minerals. We distinguish the following varieties of aventurine:
- green aventurine – the color is caused by chromium inclusions
- brown aventurine – contains hematite inclusions
- blue aventurine – has dumortierite inclusions
- yellow aventurine – results from pyrite inclusions with mica crystals
- purple aventurine – owes its color to lepidolite.
Because of its color, aventurine is sometimes confused with jasper, emerald, chrysoprase or sunstone.
Aventurine – usage
In ancient times, aventurine was used to make edged weapons, but it was also used as an ornamental stone to make utensils, amulets, and figurines. Because of its properties, aventurine is a valuable collector’s item. Currently, Aventurine is a valued gemstone, influenced by its unique color. Aventurine stones are usually cut into cabochons to enhance their luster and brilliance. At our online store, you will find a wide selection of aventurine gemstones in various sizes and shapes to create unique jewelry designs.