Aragonite
Image: Phyrexian (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameAragonite
Chemical FormulaCaCO3
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagedistinct on {010}, poor on {110} and {011}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.95
Colorswhite
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityEisenerz, Styria, Austria
Mineral GroupCarbonates
Usescollector, jewelry
Associated Mineralscalcite, dolomite, goethite, limonite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen displays delicate, branching, coral-like aggregates of white aragonite, often referred to as 'Eisenblüte' (iron flower), growing on a darker matrix.
Geological Context
Aragonite forms in various low-temperature environments, including sedimentary rocks, hot springs, and caves. The 'Eisenblüte' variety is typically found in iron ore deposits or karst environments, often as a secondary mineral.
