Aragonite
About
Aragonite is a calcium carbonate mineral that often forms in intricate clusters, including columnar, fibrous, or branching formations. It’s found in a variety of colours, including white, brown, yellow, and even blue. This mineral is common in marine environments and is often a key component of mollusk shells and coral. Major sources include Morocco, Spain, and Mexico.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Aragonite is not a traditional birthstone but is often associated with grounding, emotional balance, and transformation.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of aragonite is stability and grounding. It is thought to bring calm, focus, and emotional balance, particularly during times of stress or upheaval. Often used for grounding practices, aragonite is believed to encourage patience, clarity, and resilience. Its soothing energy helps connect individuals to the Earth’s stabilising forces, promoting emotional and physical harmony.
Facts
Polymorphism: Aragonite is a polymorph of calcite, meaning they share the same chemical composition but have different crystal structures.
Marine Origins: Aragonite is commonly found in the shells of marine organisms and as a component of coral skeletons.
High Sensitivity: Aragonite is relatively soft and sensitive to acids, requiring careful handling and storage.
Beautiful Clusters: Star-like or radiating clusters of aragonite, often called “sputnik aragonite”, are highly prized by collectors.
Geographical Distribution: Notable deposits are found in Morocco, Spain, Mexico, and the United States.
Science
Mineral: Aragonite
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Chemistry: CaCO₃
Colour: White, brown, yellow, green, blue, orange
Refractive Index: 1.530 to 1.685
Specific Gravity: 2.94 to 2.95
Mohs Hardness: 3.5 to 4
TreatmentsAragonite is generally untreated, though polished or dyed versions may occasionally appear in the market to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
SyntheticsSynthetic aragonite is rare in the jewellery market but may be created for industrial or scientific purposes.
ImitationsImitation aragonite is rare in the jewellery and crystal healing market due its abundance.
similar materialsCalcite: A calcium carbonate mineral that is chemically identical to aragonite but differs in crystal structure.