Aragonite from Minglanilla, Spain – Pseudohexagonal Twinned Crystal

This Aragonite from Minglanilla, Spain shows a compact crystalline form with pale violet to violet-brown coloration and lighter cream-colored areas. The specimen has an approximately pseudohexagonal overall shape, produced by the intergrowth of several crystal sectors.

With dimensions of 3.5 × 3.3 × 3.0 cm and a weight of 66.4 g, this is a Miniature specimen. The compact form is interesting from several viewing angles because the different intergrown crystal sectors can be followed around the entire specimen.

Compact pseudohexagonal twinning

The most striking feature of the specimen is its regular, compact overall form. Several crystal sectors are intergrown with one another and together create an approximately six-sided outline. Several sides show clearly separated crystal faces and stepped transitions between the intergrown crystal sectors.

The pale violet to violet-brown areas contrast with lighter beige to cream-colored sections. On several sides, individual crystal faces and stepped transitions between the intergrown sectors can be recognized.

The first four photographs show the specimen after successive clockwise rotations. This makes it possible to follow the crystal morphology around the entire piece rather than viewing only one display side.

Aragonite from the classic locality of Minglanilla

Minglanilla in the province of Cuenca is one of the classic Spanish localities for Aragonite. The locality is especially known for compact crystals showing characteristic pseudohexagonal twinning and multiple intergrowths.

This specimen displays that typical morphology well. The intergrown crystal sectors form a compact, almost hexagonal body, while the pale violet to violet-brown coloration and lighter areas add further visual contrast.

The photograph showing the specimen resting on its top face is especially useful for observing the twinning. Several intergrown crystal sectors can be seen meeting within the upper part of the crystal.