Aragonite (Blue)

Aragonite is essentially calcite but just with a different crystalline structure. Aragonite has the same chemical structure as Calcite; both are calcium carbonate (CaCo3). Calcite, the more common mineral, forms in trigonal crystals, whereas Aragonite forms orthorhombic crystals. It is the main component of many organic substances, such as pearl and coral. The iridescent surface of Pearl and mother-of-pearl and the lining of the abalone shell are actually layers of Aragonite secreted by mollusks and related invertebrates.

It is named for the Aragon River, where it was first discovered in 1788 in 1788, is what the mineral is named after. Aragonite naturally alters into Calcite under the right geological conditions. Unsurprisingly, Aragonite and Calcite often grown intertwined. Aragonite forms at low temperatures near the surface of the earth. Mollusks and corals also produce Aragonite by biological processes that scientists don’t yet fully understand.

Aragonite is a necessary ingredient for oysters and mussels to produce pearls.