Vaterite Crystals Contain Two Interspersed Crystal Structures

Abstract

Double Vision Vaterite is the least stable form of anhydrous crystalline calcium carbonate. While rarely found in geological contexts, it is an important biological precursor and occurs as a minor component in the shells of some organisms. The crystal structure of vaterite has long been debated with no model able to explain all the experimentally observed diffraction spots. Kabalah-Amitai et al. (p. 454 ) show that vaterite contains two coexisting crystallographic structures that form a pseudo-single crystal.