White Sea Fan (Coral)
Gorgonia ventalina or similar species within the Subclass Octocorallia · Organic Gem / Decorative Biological Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal/Orthorhombic (microcrystalline structures within an organic matrix); Habit is arborescent or flabellate (fan-shaped)
Mineral Group
Carbonates (biogenic origin)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (principally Calcite or Aragonite) with organic gorgonin protein
Formation Process
Biogenic (Sedimentary-adjacent): Secrets of calcium carbonate by polyps within a proteinaceous skeleton (gorgonin) in marine environments.
About This Crystal
A delicate, fan-like structure composed of branching, interconnected white filaments. It exhibits an arborescent growth pattern radiating from a central base. The color is off-white to creamy beige, with an opaque transparency and a matte to slightly waxy luster on the surface.
Physical Characteristics
Color: White to cream; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (fibrous/amorphous structure); Fracture: Splintery or uneven; Specific Gravity: ~2.6-2.7; Fluorescence: May show weak white or bluish-white under Longwave UV.
Optical Properties
Sub-vitreous to dull luster; Generally opaque; No significant pleochroism or dispersion; Birefringence is not applicable to the macro-structure due to its organic complexity.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Tropical and subtropical marine environments, notably the Caribbean, Indo-Pacific, and Red Sea; typically found on coral reefs and rocky seafloors.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 3 to 4. Very brittle and fragile; susceptible to snapping if handled roughly. Highly sensitive to acids.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with dry, soft brushes or very brief rinsing in distilled water. Store away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing and away from acidic cleaners or high humidity which can degrade the organic protein.
Rarity & Value
Common globally but protected in many regions under CITES regulations. Value is generally low ($10-$50) unless part of a large, perfectly preserved museum-grade display.
Special Characteristics
Features a unique reticulated lattice pattern created by biological growth; the core is often a flexible protein called gorgonin covered in a hard calcified crust.
Lore & History
Historically used as maritime decor and in some cultures as a protective amulet for sailors. Metaphysically associated with the element of water, it is traditionally believed to support emotional flow and connection to the ocean's calming energies.