5.35" Cave Calcite (Aragonite) Formation - Fluorescent

This is a beautiful, fluorescent aragonite (cave calcite) formation from Morocco. When viewing the mineral under natural and artificial light, aside from the interesting white botryoidal formations, the mineral may seem slightly uninspiring. But when placed under shortwave/longwave UV light, this mineral fluoresces a white-green color and displays a phosphorescence that lingers for a short period of time following removal of the UV light.

Cave calcite is not actually calcite but a formation of aragonite crystals. Calcite and aragonite are both carbonates with the same chemical formula (CaCO3), but different crystal structures and symmetries.

Cave calcite forms underground due to groundwater deposition. While it often forms stalactites and stalagmites on cave ceilings and floors, it can also form as unique, branching, tree-like structures. These beautiful formations are sometimes known as ‘floss ferri’ (flowers of iron) and frostwork.

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DETAILS
SPECIES
Aragonite
LOCATION
Morocco
SIZE
5.35 x 2.7"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#182315