Gemstone :
Peach Aventurine

Birthstone Month :
Aventurine is associated with the birthstone month of August.

Zodiac :
Aventurine is associated with the zodiac signs of Aries, Leo, Libra and Taurus.

Chemical Symbol :
SiO2

Chemical Make-up :
Aventurine is a Silicon Dioxide and is a translucent to opaque variety of microcystalline quartz. The color of the stone depends on the mineral impurities contained within. Peach Aventurine gets its color from Hematite, Goethite, or Iron micas.

History & Lore :
Aventurine derives from the Italian word 'a ventura' meaning “by chance”. The derivation of this name dates back to the 1700's-1800's when an Italian glass-maker accidentally came across the discovery of this stone whilst unknowingly dropping copper filings into some molten glass. It is believed that Aventurine is the only gemstone that was man-made before its natural counterpart was discovered.

One of the most well-known Aventurine's is one carved by the famous Helmut Wolf of the village Kirschweiler near Idar-Oberstain, Germany. He fashioned a fine green Indian Aventurine that stands 5.5 feet high and weighs 2.5 tons.

Aventurine is often referred to as the Gambler's Stone because it is known to bring the wearer increased chance, opportunity, and good luck. It is also known to reduce stress, relieve anxiety and calm one's emotions. Aventurine is known to enhance creativity and to develop both confidence and leadership qualities.

Physically, Aventurine is known to treat disorders of the lungs and heart and can help to increase muscle flexibility. An ancient Tibetan legend claims that the stone can improve near-sightedness.

Availability :
Aventurine is both abundant and relatively inexpensive.

Sources :
India is the world's largest supplier of Aventurine. There are also known deposits in Austria, Brazil, Chile, China, Japan, Madagascar, Russia, Spain, Tanzania, and the United States.

Evaluation :
Aventurine is rated at 7 on Moh's Scale of Hardness. It is translucent to opaque variety of microcrystalline quartz and contains small inclusions of minerals which reflects light and give the stone a sparkling effect known in the gem market as 'aventurescence'. The color of the aventurescence depends on the mineral found within the stone. Peach Aventurine contains Hematite, Goethite, or Iron Micas which account for its peach to orangish-peach sparkle and color.

Common Cuts :
Aventurine is most often found cut into cabochons and beads for jewelry, although it is also commonly carved into ornamental figures.

Routine Enhancements :
There are no known enhancements for Aventurine.

Care & Cleaning :
Aventurine can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. As with most gemstones, Aventurine should be kept away from prolonged exposure to excessive heat and household chemicals that could cause damage to the stone. Translucent Aventurine is known to fade when exposed to prolonged contact with bright sunlight. Aventurine should be kept in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.