mineral

Honey Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness 3 on Mohs scale; Color: golden amber to honey yellow; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: hexagonal/rhombohedral; Cleavage: perfect in three directions (rhombohedral); Specific gravity: 2.71

Color: golden amber to honey yellow
Luster: vitreous to pearly

Identified May 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through precipitation from calcium-rich solutions in hydrothermal veins, caves, and sedimentary environments. Most specimens are relatively young in geological terms but found in rocks of various ages.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for ornamental carvings, decorative stones, as a source for lime/cement in industry, and as a popular mineral specimen for metaphysical collectors.

Geological facts

Honey calcite is known for its property of double refraction, where a beam of light is split into two beams when passing through the crystal. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its softness (can be scratched with a copper penny), rhombohedral cleavage, and strong effervescence when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It is common in limestone and marble quarries.