Aventurine is known as the stone of confidence and tranquility. Aventurine is a very eclectic stone and is used in a number of applications besides that of jewelry. It is semi-translucent to opaque and its mineral inclusions give it a glistening shimmer, called `aventurescence`. Most commonly Aventurine comes in a green color but it can also be of blue, gray, brown, orange and yellow color. Unlike many other gemstones, aventurine is not a mineral, but a rock with a hardness of 6.5 to 7.0 on the Mohs scale. Aventurine is composed of two gem minerals, one is plagioclase feldspar and the other is quartz. Both have a sparkling reflection from oriented minute inclusions of mica or hematite, which cause a slight metallic iridescence.
One can find aventurine in aquaria, stone buildings, landscape stones, bowls, vases, figurines and monuments. The name `Aventurine` comes from the Italian phrase `per aventura`. This means `by chance`. Aventurine and quartz was actually used by primitive man to fashion tools and stone axes. Many people mistake aventurine gemstones for jade or amazonite. On the contrary it is also known as the `stone of heaven` or `Indian jade`. Aventurine is a good luck stone often carried by gamblers and that is why many gamblers place aventurine gemstones in charm bags and bring them good luck and money. Ancient peoples believed aventurine to be an all-purpose healer that could reduce stress and bring about inner peace. Many people today wear aventurine jewelry not only for its attractiveness, but for its ability to draw good fortune and heal its wearer. This is a good career stone for those in stressful situations at work. It helps to reinforces ones decision making abilities and amplifies leadership qualities. It heals emotional pain, fear and imbalance by dissolving blocks in the heart Chakra. This gemstone is very good for the lower back or sciatica. A crystal can be placed in the bath water to ease muscles. It protects and helps to heal the lungs, heart, adrenal glands, muscular tissue, Nervous System, and Stress. It is also helpful in reducing cholesterol and the prevention of arteriosclerosis. This can be used to clear the skin especially when allergies are involved. It enhances mental powers, eyesight, gambling, money, peace, healing, and luck. Legend claims that aventurine can also help in healing near sightedness. This gemstone is mainly quartz, a quartzite, usually containing mica.
Aventurine gemstone usually radiates a calming energy, this is used in shielding the heart and in healing and balancing the emotions. Aventurine further stimulates creativity and independence. It enhances leadership qualities allowing the wearer to act decisively, and strengthens intuitive power. It is especially useful for healing and for good luck. This is also helpful in the treatment of fevers, inflammation, nervous system stress, migraines, eye ailments, blood pressure abnormalities, hypertension and urino-genital disorders. It will amplify your ability to focus and find creative solutions as well.
Physical Properties
The color of Aventurine can be mentioned as Green, bluish-white, bluish green and orange. Its hardness is 7 and specific gravity is 2.65. Refractive index varies from 1.544-1.563. This gemstone is the sign of Taurus. This can be the anniversary gemstone for the 8th year of marriage.
Color
Aventurine is a soft green semi-translucent to mostly opaque stone with mica flecks. Aventurine also comes in silvery, yellow, reddish brown, greenish-brown, bluish green and orange. It contains inclusions of small crystals that reflect light and give a range of colors depending on the nature of the inclusion.
Green Aventurine
This is the stone of luck and chance. It is said to increase perception and creative insight. It is a heart chakra stone. Green aventurine is usually given on the 8th year of marriage. It is the birthstone for August and is often referred to as the `stone of opportunity`.
Blue Aventurine
This type is an Aries stone that opens the Third eye chakra. It is a powerful mental healer that increases vitality and a positive outlook. This stone assists in self-discipline and developing inner strength.
This translucent aventurine often fades in the sun, therefore the aventurine jewelry should better be kept in the dark place. This is a very charming inexpensive stone. Its claim to fame is having inclusions that look like sparkles. There was a custom of assigning various Masculine and Feminine Saints with a particular gem for use in talismans. The name Andrew or Andre is associated with Aventurine.
Gemstones for Planets
See Also
