aragonite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 / Low FrequencyTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “aragonite” mean?
A mineral, a crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A mineral, a crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
A typically colourless or white mineral, often found in sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, in the shells of some molluscs, and as a component of some pearls.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage, spelling, or meaning. It is a standard international scientific term.
Connotations
None beyond its technical definition.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to scientific and specialist contexts (geology, chemistry, jewellery).
Grammar
How to Use “aragonite” in a Sentence
Aragonite is a form of [material].The sample consists primarily of [aragonite].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “aragonite” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The aragonite layers in the shell were analysed.
- An aragonite skeleton provides structural support.
American English
- The sample showed aragonite precipitation.
- They studied the aragonite composition of the cave formation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Common in geology, earth sciences, and materials science journals; e.g., 'The biogenic aragonite precipitation was studied.'
Everyday
Virtually never used. Might appear in specialist hobbies like mineral collecting or in high-end jewellery descriptions.
Technical
The precise term for this specific mineral phase; used in petrology, sedimentology, and geochemistry reports.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “aragonite”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “aragonite”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “aragonite”
- Misspelling as 'aragonate' (which would relate to a chemical salt) or 'argonite'.
- Confusing it with the more common 'calcite'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are both calcium carbonate but have different crystal structures (orthorhombic vs. trigonal), leading to different physical properties like hardness and cleavage.
It is named after the Spanish province of Aragón, where it was first identified in the late 18th century.
As a common mineral, it is not generally valuable. However, its biological form (nacre) in pearls and mother-of-pearl is highly prized in jewellery.
Yes, in a limited way. The inner iridescent layer of many seashells (mother-of-pearl) and the structure of pearls are made of aragonite.
A mineral, a crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
Aragonite is usually technical/scientific in register.
Aragonite: in British English it is pronounced /əˈræɡ.ə.naɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈræɡ.ə.naɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the region of Aragon in Spain, where it was first identified, plus '-ite' a common suffix for minerals and rocks.
Practice
Quiz
Aragonite is a polymorph of which common compound?