A few weeks back, those of you who joined the Facebook Live session might recall the stunning Blue Aventurine point I showcased. It had mesmerising shades of blue with intricate, darker lacey patterns throughout—a truly breathtaking piece!
Many of you asked whether Blue Aventurine is naturally blue or if it is dyed. I did some research and wanted to share my findings with you.
What is Blue Aventurine?
Blue Aventurine is a beautiful and calming gemstone known for its metaphysical and healing properties. It is a variety of quartz, distinguished by its captivating blue colour and the presence of tiny mica inclusions that give it a shimmering or glittery effect—a key characteristic to look out for when identifying genuine Blue Aventurine.
Metaphysical Properties of Blue Aventurine
Blue Aventurine is believed to offer various metaphysical benefits, making it a sought-after gemstone for healing and spiritual work. Some of its properties include:
- **Calming and Soothing** – Helps relieve stress and anxiety, promoting inner peace.
- **Enhancing Communication** – Supports self-expression and clear articulation.
- **Stimulating Creativity** – Encourages imagination and artistic expression.
- **Attracting Prosperity** – Associated with abundance and good fortune.
Physical Properties of Blue Aventurine
- **Colour:** Blue
- **Hardness:** 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale
- **Specific Gravity:** 2.64-2.69
- **Refractive Index:** 1.544-1.553
- **Crystal System:** Trigonal
History and Lore of Blue Aventurine
Aventurine has been cherished for centuries for its beauty and spiritual significance. The name "aventurine" originates from the Italian term "a ventura," meaning "by chance," as the shimmering effect was once considered an accidental discovery. Historically, aventurine has been used in jewellery, meditation, and energy healing practices.
How to Care for Blue Aventurine
While Blue Aventurine is relatively durable, proper care is essential to maintain its vibrancy:
- Clean with warm water and mild soap.
- Use a soft cloth to polish and restore its natural sheen.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as dyed stones may fade over time.
Is Blue Aventurine Dyed?
One of the most common questions is whether Blue Aventurine is naturally blue or artificially enhanced. Here’s what you need to know:
- **Natural Aventurine:** True aventurine is typically green due to fuchsite (a green mica inclusion).
- **Commercial Blue Aventurine:** Many stones marketed as Blue Aventurine are actually blue quartz that has been dyed to achieve the vibrant blue colour.
How to Identify Genuine Blue Aventurine
- **Colour Consistency:** Natural Blue Aventurine has a slightly varied colour, while dyed quartz often appears too uniform.
- **Mica Inclusions:** Authentic Blue Aventurine contains tiny, shimmering mica flecks.
- **Fading Over Time:** Dyed quartz may fade when exposed to sunlight or harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts...
So, is Blue Aventurine real? Yes, but often what’s sold as Blue Aventurine is dyed quartz. If you're looking for natural Blue Aventurine, check for its signature sparkly flecks! Even dyed Blue Aventurine carries the energetic properties of quartz and remains a stunning, valuable addition to any crystal collection.