Aragonite

Aragonite is a mineral and a type of calcite. Its name (given in 1797) comes from the Molina de Aragón region in Spain, where very beautiful specimens are found. Its color is usually white, but it can also be colorless, yellow, gray, pink, black, or multicolored due to impurities. Its luster is vitreous or resinous, and it is relatively soft. As a crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), it has significant geological and industrial value.

In Greece, aragonite deposits can be found in the caves of Diros and Alistrati, in marine deposits in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, and in limestone rocks in mainland Greece and the Peloponnese (in very small deposits). There are no mining industries for it.

Aragonite is used in the production of lime and cement and is an important component in building materials. It also plays a role in ecology by contributing to carbon storage. Additionally, some forms of aragonite are used in jewelry and decorative objects.