RocksdayAventurine vs Jadeite
How to tell them apart
Quartz sparkling with tiny reflective mica flakes, most often green from chromium-rich fuchsite.
Photo: Doobuzz at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
One of the two minerals called jade. Its tightly interlocked crystals make it extremely tough.
Photo: Shannon Heinle, CC0
Key differences
- Jade is tougher, waxier and has no glitter.
Side by side
| Property | Aventurine | Jadeite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mineral | Mineral |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5–7 | 6.5–7 |
| Luster | Vitreous | Vitreous to greasy |
| Streak | White | White |
| Colors | Green, Blue, Orange | Green, White, Purple |
| Crystal system | Granular quartz | Monoclinic |
| Specific gravity | 2.64–2.69 | 3.24–3.43 |
| Formula | SiO₂ + mica inclusions | NaAlSi₂O₆ |
| Found in | India; Brazil | Hpakant, Myanmar; Motagua Valley, Guatemala |
Properties that are the same for both are grayed out.
How to identify aventurine
- Even green body with a fine glittery sparkle.
- Granular, sugary texture in rough pieces.
- Hard — scratches glass.
Crystal system: Granular quartz
Full Aventurine guide →How to identify jadeite
- Very tough — hard to chip or break.
- Feels heavy and cold, with a slightly greasy polish.
- Green, white or lavender, often mottled.
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Full Jadeite guide →More comparisons
Could you tell them apart from a blurry close-up?
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