Aragonite Natural Stone: Origin, Mineral Structure, Areas of Use and Price Differences

Aragonite is a calcium carbonate mineral known for its unique crystal structure and different color tones. This article examines where Aragonite is mined, its mineral structure, areas of use, and price differences.

Where is Aragonite Stone Extracted?

Aragonite stone can be found in various regions around the world. The major aragonite deposits are located in Spain, Morocco, Mexico, Austria and the USA. These regions are famous for their high quality aragonite stones and contribute greatly to the world market.

• Spain: The Aragon region is where aragonite was first found and is the region from which this stone takes its name.
• Morocco: Morocco is particularly known for its blue aragonite deposits.
• Mexico: The Chihuahua region is one of the main places where aragonite is mined.
• Austria: Hochobir Mountain is a place where high quality aragonite stones are found.
• USA: New Mexico and Arizona are the main places where aragonite is mined.

Mineral Structure

Aragonite is a stone belonging to the calcium carbonate mineral group and its chemical formula is CaCO3. The stone has a prismatic or tabular crystal structure and is usually found in shades of white, yellow, brown, green and blue. Aragonite crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system and has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs hardness scale. Although these features do not make the stone durable, they increase its aesthetic value.

Areas of Use of Aragonite Stone

Aragonite is widely used in various jewelry and ornaments due to its aesthetic and decorative properties. Here are some areas where Aragonite stone is used:

• Necklace: Aragonite necklaces are popular jewelry that showcase the stone's unique hues and natural beauty.
• Ring: Aragonite rings are often used with precious metals such as silver or gold.
• Earrings: Aragonite earrings are among the jewelry that highlights the natural beauty of the stone.
• Bracelet: Aragonite bracelets are preferred accessories for both daily use and special occasions.
• Decorative Objects: Aragonite is widely used in vases, statues and ornaments used in home decoration.

Price Differences

The price of Aragonite varies depending on various factors. These factors include the color, clarity, crystal structure, cut, carat weight and source of the stone. Here are the main factors that affect Aragonite prices:

• Color and Clarity: The most valuable aragonite stones are those with distinct and homogeneous colors. Color intensity and clarity increase the value of the stone.
• Crystal Structure: Aragonite stones with a distinct and aesthetic crystal structure can be sold at higher prices.
• Cut: Professionally cut and polished aragonite stones are more valuable because they reflect light better.
• Carat Weight: Larger and heavier aragonite stones generally command higher prices than smaller stones.
• Source: High-quality aragonite stones from areas such as Spain, Morocco and Mexico are often more valuable than those from other sources.

Conclusion

Aragonite is a valuable natural stone with its unique crystal structure and different color tones. This stone, which is extracted from various regions around the world, is widely used in jewelry and ornaments with its aesthetic and decorative features. Its chemical structure and physical properties make Aragonite a sought-after stone in jewelry and decorative object making. Aragonite stone, whose price varies depending on color, clarity, crystal structure, cut, carat weight and source, has a valuable place both in jewelry making and in collections.