Aragonite

Aragonite is a carbonate mineral. It is one of the three most common forms of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). The other two forms are calcite and vaterite. Aragonite forms in both water and on land, often in oceans and lakes.

Aragonite has a different internal structure from calcite. This structure is called a crystal lattice. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system. Aragonite often grows in long, thin shapes. Sometimes, the crystals grow together to look almost six-sided. This is called twinning.

Aragonite can also form in branching shapes called flos-ferri. This means "flowers of iron." These crystals were found near ores in old iron mines. Scientists and collectors find these crystals interesting because of their special shapes and where they are found.

Occurrence

Aragonite is a type of mineral found in many places around the world. It was first found in Molina de Aragón in Spain, and it is named after this place. You can also find aragonite in caves, such as the Ochtinská Aragonite Cave in Slovakia, and in famous spots like Carlsbad Caverns in the United States.

Aragonite is also a key part of many sea creature shells, like those of mollusks and corals. It can form naturally in oceans as tiny crystals and is sometimes found in rocks deep within the Earth.

Physical properties

Aragonite is a type of calcium carbonate. It is not very stable, but it can form close to the Earth's surface. It can appear because of tiny particles or certain chemicals in the water.

Another form of calcium carbonate called vaterite is also not very stable. It changes quickly, even more so than aragonite.

Uses

In aquaria, aragonite helps create natural reef conditions. It gives sea creatures what they need to live and keeps the water’s pH balanced. This helps protect the water.

Aragonite can also clean water. It can remove harmful substances like zinc, cobalt, and lead from polluted wastewater.