Aventurine Stone

Aventurine is an opaque or semi-translucent brown glass flecked with small metallic particles of copper or chromic oxide. Also known as sunstone, Aventurine may be any of the several varieties of quartz or feldspar flecked with particles of mica, hematite, or other materials. Aventurine derives its name from Italian - per avventura - by chance.

It is a chalcedony with small inclusions of any of various shiny minerals that give the stone a glistening effect known as aventurescence. The color of the aventurescence depends on the mineral included in the stone. Mica inclusions give a yellow or silver sheen. Goethite and Hematite inclusions give a red or gray sheen. Fuschite inclusions give a green sheen. Aventurine has the capacity to calm a troubled mind thereby bringing inner peace. The strong green color of this crystal lends itself to prosperity meditations. Aventurine is said to increase confidence, and gratitude, promotes emotional tranquality and positive attitudes. The gemstone is an excellent protector of the heart chakra and balances the male/female energies.

Aventurine is cut and polished into cabochons and beads for jewelry, and is sometimes carved into ornamental figures. It is believed to posses physical healing powers and a lucky talisman for those born under the astrological signs of Aries, Gemini, Cancer, Virgo, Taurus and Libra. The gemstone is found in Brazil, India, Japan, Russia, Tanzania, and USA.