Comparison · Minerals
Aragonite vs Cerussite
Aragonite and Cerussite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Both sit near Mohs 3.5–4, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Aragonite and Cerussite
- Both sit near Mohs 3.5–4, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 2.93–2.95 for Aragonite).
- They overlap in clear, gray, and blue, but Aragonite also comes in yellow and pink and Cerussite also comes in green.
Aragonite vs Cerussite properties
| Property | Aragonite | Cerussite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5–4 | 3–3.5 |
| Luster | Vitreous to resinous | Adamantine to vitreous/resinous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Transparent to translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.93–2.95 | 6.5–6.6 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Orthorhombic |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Yellow, Gray, Blue, Pink | Colorless, White, Gray, Blue (rare), Green (rare) |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $2–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Aragonite and Cerussite trade in a similar range, around $20.
About Aragonite
Aragonite is calcium carbonate, CaCO3, crystallizing in the orthorhombic system as a metastable polymorph of the more common mineral calcite. It readily forms in low-temperature settings such as caves, hot springs, and the shells of many marine organisms, and it slowly converts to calcite over geologic time. Twinned crystal clusters resembling six-rayed stars are among its most recognizable forms.
About Cerussite
Cerussite is lead carbonate, PbCO3, a heavy, brittle mineral that forms in the oxidized gossan zones of lead ore deposits. Its very high density and strong adamantine luster make it feel and look far more valuable than its modest hardness would suggest, and colorless crystals can show fire approaching that of diamond. It commonly develops as twinned, reticulated, or star-shaped crystal groups.
Aragonite vs Cerussite FAQ
Is Aragonite the same as Cerussite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 3.5–4, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Aragonite from Cerussite?
Both sit near Mohs 3.5–4, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 2.93–2.95 for Aragonite). They overlap in clear, gray, and blue, but Aragonite also comes in yellow and pink and Cerussite also comes in green.
Which is harder, Aragonite or Cerussite?
Aragonite is harder: Mohs 3.5–4 against Mohs 3–3.5 for Cerussite.
Which is more valuable, Aragonite or Cerussite?
Typical specimens of Aragonite and Cerussite trade in a similar range, around $20.
