Mineral Species: Aragonite

Chemical Formula: CaCO3

Chemical Name: Calcium Carbonate

Mineral Class: Carbonate

Mineral Notes: Aragonite has the same chemical composition as Calcite. However the way that atoms are arranged in the crystal is different and for this reason Aragonite crystallises in the orthorhombic system. Aragonite also has another popular habit called Floss Ferri or "flowers of iron". This is a branching form that can make delicate tree or coral-like formations that are very beautiful. A steep pyramidal habit forms clusters of sharp spiked crystals sometimes referred to as a "church steeple" habit.

Description: Very attractive pale-blue Aragonite on matrix. Individual crystals are easily seen. The blue colour is produced by the presence of small amounts of copper salts present in the Aragonite. Excellent display specimen.

Location: Xichang Mine, Xichang Co., Liangshan, Sichuan, China