What is Aragonite?
Aragonite is a form of calcium carbonate that forms at low temperatures relatively close to the Earth's surface. Aragonite can be found as intergrowth with other gemstones, as part of stalactites within caves, and within the oxidization zones of ore minerals. Aragonite is a polymorph of Calcite, but is slightly less common than Calcite due to the conditions under which it forms. We are often asked, "What is the difference between Aragonite and Calcite? Are Aragonite and Calcite the same?" Polymorphs like Aragonite and Calcite consist of the same basic chemical components, but exhibit differences in formation and structure. Among some of the basic differences: Aragonite is very slightly harder on the Mohs scale than Calcite, and features an orthorhombic crystal system, while Calcite is triagonal. It has been suggested that Aragonite may invert to Calcite over time depending on environmental factors.
Much like Calcite, the presence of other materials within Aragonite can result in a variety of different colors. While Aragonite is often colorless, white, or grey, it can take on brown, orange, green, blue, or reddish hues based on the inclusions present in the specimen. Popular Aragonite colors include: Blue Aragonite, Pink Aragonite, Green Aragonite, Orange Aragonite, Brown Aragonite, White Aragonite, and Purple Aragonite. While all of these colors can be found naturally in the Earth, some shades of Blue Aragonite or Pink Aragonite are color enhanced to an almost neon degree. When searching for natural Pink Aragonite or Blue Aragonite, look for slightly muted tones with inclusions from surrounding minerals.
Aragonite Meaning and Metaphysical Properties
When discussing Aragonite crystals, the color of the gemstone can determine much about its meaning and intended uses. Aragonite crystals in general carry the meaning of peace and patience, making them excellent for use during meditation or grounding. Typically, the standalone name Aragonite refers to Brown Aragonite, which is known as a Root Chakra and Crown Chakra stone for wisdom and moving past negative thought cycles. Brown Aragonite is often used by students, teachers, and mentors, since it is a gem for learning as well as clearing blockages, making it a perfect support stone for anyone studying new subjects or skills. White Aragonite (aka Colorless Aragonite) is similarly known as a crystal for stress relief, aligning the Chakras, self awareness, and mental clarity. It is a potent support gem for meditation, personal growth, and self empowerment. Orange Aragonite is associated with security, positivity, and appreciation for the earthier aspects of life. As a Root Chakra and Sacral Chakra crystal, Orange Aragonite is used to spark a love of the self and gratitude for the natural world. Blue Aragonite is a gem for the Higher Chakras (Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, and Crown Chakra) used to engage the creative mind, soothe away anxiety, and strengthen spellwork by helping us to remove our doubts and fears from the equation. Pink Aragonite is considered a gem for new beginnings, particularly when it comes to blessings of romance, joy, and feeling connected with others. It resonates through the Heart Chakra with a tender, compassionate energy and is a delightful focal stone for anyone looking to nurture their Empathic abilities. Red Aragonite bridges from the Root Chakra to the Heart Chakra, and is known for encouraging confidence and renewal when it comes to relationships, helping us to feel more ready to express and accept love. Green Aragonite is thought to bring stability, balance, and positivity to bear on matters of decision making, keeping impulsivity and negative emotions from altering our problem-solving methods by grounding us to the Earth element.
How to Cleanse Aragonite Crystals
Since Aragonite is quite soft on the Mohs scale, with a hardness of approximately 3.5 - 4, Aragonite is not a stone that should go in water, especially for long periods. While a short dunk or wiping with a damp cloth won't immediately damage your Aragonite crystal, long-term submersion can cause the gemstone to soften further, resulting in damage. We always suggest a Selenite bowl or exposure to Full Moonlight as a method for charging and cleansing crystals, since these will not cause any damage to your gemstones. Smoke Cleansing with Sage, Palo Santo, Incense, or dried herbs is another safe way to cleanse Aragonite.
