Description & Provenance

Aragonite is elementally identical to calcite but is considerably rarer due to the very specific geological conditions required for its formation. Aragonite exhibits a variety of forms and can be quite diverse. This is an excellent example that has taken on what collector’s call a “ram’s horn” shape. Ram’s horn formations are what one might expect from their name, they are elongated, curled specimens that resemble curved horns. Attractive and relatively uncommon, the curving shape of a “ram’s horn” is a beloved curiosity among mineral collectors. Most often, ram’s horn shapes can be seen exhibited by selenite crystals (if exhibited at all) and even then, most specimens exhibit just a slight curve. This aragonite exhibits an impressive, spiraling shape that tapers towards its end. Whimsical and distinctly expressed, it has a sculpturesque form that appears organic in appearance. It also has a white coloring and translucence that makes the piece appear to glow when lit. Its termination is topped by a small amalgamation of aragonite, giving this swirling body a “head,” as though it were a bioluminescent deep-sea snail or a winding dragon. Furthering this resemblance is its textured, opaque matrix that resembles coral. It is an ideal example of the much-loved ram’s horn formation and a wonderful example of its species.

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