mineral

Honey Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (can be scratched by a penny); Color: Pale yellow to golden-amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71.

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (can be scratched by a penny)
Color: Pale yellow to golden-amber
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, typically in marine environments as chemical precipitates or in limestone caves as stalactites/stalagmites. It can also form in hydrothermal veins. Geological age varies greatly from millions to hundreds of millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative collector's specimen, in lapidary work for ornamental carvings, or in 'metaphysical' collections. Industrially, calcite is a main component of limestone used in cement and agriculture.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. It exhibits double refraction (birefringence), where light passing through a clear crystal splits into two rays, making objects behind it appear doubled. This specific variety gets its golden color from iron impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct rhombohedral 'leaning box' shape and its reaction to weak acid (it will fizz). It is significantly softer than quartz. Commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, and the United States (specifically Tennessee and Missouri).