mineral
Aragonite Star Cluster
Aragonite (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, honey-yellow, or white; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (often forming pseudo-hexagonal twinned crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.95.
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Reddish-brown, honey-yellow, or white
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, honey-yellow, or white; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (often forming pseudo-hexagonal twinned crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.95.
Formation & geological history
Formed through low-temperature sedimentary processes, such as precipitation from hot springs or in caves as speleothems. This specific 'star' habit often comes from oxidized zones of deposits.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as decorative collector specimens, metaphysical healing stones, and occasionally in the manufacturing of cement or as a calcium supplement.
Geological facts
Aragonite is chemically identical to calcite (polymorphs), but they have different crystal structures. It is also the primary material found in mother-of-pearl and pearls.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its unique 'sputnik' or star-burst hexagonal twinned crystal habit and its reaction (fizzing) to cold dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Morocco, Spain, and Mexico.
