Biocrystal

Biocrystal is a term used to describe a crystal produced or organized by living organisms through biomineralization. In biology, many organisms create crystalline inorganic materials that provide structural support, protection, or physiological functions. Common biocrystals include calcium phosphate minerals such as hydroxyapatite in bones and tooth enamel; calcium carbonate minerals like calcite and aragonite in shells and skeletons; and biogenic silica in the cell walls of diatoms and certain sponges. Magnetite crystals formed by magnetotactic bacteria and other iron oxides used for navigation are another example.

Crystal formation in biology is tightly controlled by organic molecules, including proteins and polysaccharides, which influence nucleation, crystal habit, size, and orientation. The resulting materials often exhibit hierarchical architecture and remarkable toughness, inspiring biomimetic approaches in materials science.

Biocrystal research overlaps with the broader study of biomineralization, paleontology, and geobiology, and informs the development of biocompatible materials for medical and dental applications, as well as sustainable synthesis methods.

Note that biocrystal is not a universally standardized scientific term; more common descriptors include biomineral, biogenic mineral, or biogenic crystal. Outside scientific use, the term is also encountered in commercial contexts describing crystal-based health products, which should be evaluated critically.