Pink Aragonite
Aragonite var. Pink (Orthorhombic Calcium Carbonate) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Orthorhombic system; commonly occurs in acicular, prismatic, or pseudo-hexagonal twinned crystals, often found as fibrous, massive, or botryoidal aggregates.
Mineral Group
Carbonate Group (Aragonite Group)
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (with trace Manganese or Cobalt contributing to pink hues)
Formation Process
Sedimentary or Low-Temperature Hydrothermal; forms through chemical precipitation in hot springs, caves as stalactites, or as a secondary mineral in oxidized zones of ore deposits.
About This Crystal
This specimen is a polished spherical orb approximately 3cm in diameter. It displays a mottled, swirling pattern of pale pink, cream, and dusty rose hues with a waxy to vitreous luster. It is largely opaque with subtle translucent sections and visible internal crystalline grain.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pink and cream. Streak: White. Cleavage: Distinct in one direction. Fracture: Sub-conchoidal. Specific Gravity: 2.93 to 2.95. Tenacity: Brittle. Fluorescence: May show weak pinkish or yellowish fluorescence under UV light.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.530-1.685. Birefringence: Strong (0.155). It is Biaxial negative. Does not typically exhibit pleochroism or other phenomena in massive/opaque form.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notably sourced from Mexico (Puebla and Chihuahua), Pakistan, Morocco, and various locations in Spain; typically found in the oxidized zones of ore deposits and sedimentary environments.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 3.5 to 4.0. It is relatively soft and brittle, making it unsuitable for high-wear jewelry; easily scratched by steel or quartz.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid all acids (it will effervesce and dissolve), ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners. Store away from harder stones to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Value is determined by color intensity and pattern. Pink varieties are more desirable for collectors and decorative use than plain white or brown specimens. Usually very affordable.
Special Characteristics
Exhibits strong effervescence when in contact with cold dilute hydrochloric acid. Some specimens may show phosphorescence after exposure to UV light.
Lore & History
Traditionally used as a grounding stone in crystal healing, associated with the Root and Heart chakras. Historically, aragonite is named after the Aragon region in Spain where it was first identified in 1797. It is a major component of the shells of many marine organisms.