Aragonite and Calcite on Pumice - Taupo, New Zealand
Contributed by: FMS Admin
Date: May 8th, 2026
Locality: Taupo District, Waikato Region, New Zealand (See on Mindat)
Size: 2 x 3 inches
Description:
Who would have thought of a fluorescent rock that floats?!? Here is aragonite and calcite on pumice from Taupo, New Zealand. The area around Taupo is volcanic, with lots of hot springs and thermal activity, creating the calcium rich deposits on the pumice. Though the card that came with the specimen states calcite, I am guessing the white material is aragonite and the orange is the calcite. Surprising that the pumice has a definite glow to it as well. Neat piece with a great phosphorescence.
Originally posted by Fire Viper on Nature's Rainbows in 2017.
Summary of luminescence responses:
Aragonite (Mindat) (RRUFF)
- Fluorescence under Longwave (365nm LED) UV light: White
- Afterglow after exposure to Longwave (365nm LED) UV light: Green
- Fluorescence under Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: White
- Fluorescence under Longwave (365nm LED) UV light: White
- Fluorescence under Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: White