Pronunciation: [ˈaɹɐɡˌɒna͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "aragonite" is derived from the name of the province of Aragon in Spain. Its spelling is due to the pronunciation of the word. In International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it is spelled /əˈræɡənaɪt/. The "a" is pronounced as the schwa sound, the "g" is pronounced as /ɡ/ and the "i" is pronounced as /aɪ/. It is a mineral that is composed of calcium carbonate and is commonly found in the shells of marine organisms.
Aragonite is a crystalline mineral composed of calcium carbonate, with the chemical formula CaCO3. It is a polymorph of calcium carbonate, meaning that it has the same chemical composition as other carbonate minerals, such as calcite and vaterite, but possesses a different crystal structure. Aragonite is often found in the form of prismatic or needle-like crystals, typically colorless or white, but it can also appear in various shades of yellow, brown, or even blue.
Due to its abundant presence in marine environments, aragonite is considered an important constituent of the shells and skeletons of many marine organisms, including corals, mollusks, and shellfish. It is particularly prevalent in coral reefs, where it contributes to their formation and stability. Aragonite's association with these ecosystems has made it a subject of study in the fields of geology and biology.
Aragonite is also valued for its use as a mineral specimen in the field of mineralogy. Its various color forms and crystal habits make it sought-after by collectors. In addition, its distinctive appearance and properties have made it a popular material for use in jewelry and decorative objects.
In terms of its industrial applications, aragonite is frequently utilized in the production of lime and cement. It can be heated to produce lime, which is used in various construction and manufacturing processes. Furthermore, powdered aragonite can act as a filler material in plastics, paper, and paints, as well as an ingredient in fertilizer blends.
The word "aragonite" has its roots in the region of Aragon in northeastern Spain. It was first discovered there in the 18th century by Abraham Gottlob Werner, a German mineralogist. Werner named the mineral "aragonite" after the region where it was found. The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in mineral names to indicate a specific mineral composition.
