Aragonspath

/ˈærəɡoʊnspɑːθ/ noun

Definition

A double-refracting variety of aragonite crystal that exhibits optical properties like a spar (transparent mineral).

Etymology

From aragonite combined with 'spar,' a term for transparent, reflective crystals (from Old Norse 'spora'). This mineralogical term describes both the mineral and its optical properties.

Kelly Says

Iceland spar (another name for certain calcite) was used by Vikings to navigate on cloudy days—they could look through the crystals and find the sun! Aragonspath has similar magical-looking optical tricks.

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