Aragonite is chemically identical to Calcite and forms in a similar way. In fact, Aragonite naturally alters into Calcite under the right geological conditions. Unsurprisingly, Aragonite and Calcite often grow intertwined. Aragonite forms at low temperatures near the surface of the earth. Mollusks and corals also produce Aragonite by biological processes that scientists don't yet fully understand. Aragonite is a necessary ingredient for oysters and mussels to produce pearls. Aragonite is found in small deposits around the world. Notable deposits for Brown Aragonite are found in Austria, Morocco, Peru, Spain, and the United States. Aragonite comes in many different colors ranging from light yellow to brownish-gray and its hardness measures between 3.5 and 4 on the Mohs scale. It has many uses in industry aside from its use as jewelry and a metaphysical gemstone. The original type specimen was a reddish-brown Moroccan Aragonite star and miners still produce beautiful specimens of them in that region today. Later mineralogists noted other colors and shapes. Today we know that most Aragonite is colorless or grey and doesn't always produce large distinct crystals, however it can appear in a massive form. During the 21st century, a brown striped massive Aragonite from Peru (these are what's being offered with this listing) has become popular with its metaphysical uses and carved ornamental decorations. In the 2020's Peruvian miners found an additional small deposit of red striped Aragonite.