Sedimentary

Banded Calcite (often sold as 'Ocean Jasper' or 'Caribbean Calcite' variant)

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) with potential Aragonite inclusions

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (soft); Color: Cream, honey-brown, and tan with distinct concentric bands; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71.

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (soft)
Color: Cream, honey-brown, and tan with distinct concentric bands
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 18, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the chemical precipitation of calcium carbonate in sedimentary environments, often in caves or around hot springs (travertine). Usually Holocene to Pleistocene in age.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative carvings, metaphysical 'crystals', lapidary arts, and ornamental sculptures like the goddess torso shown.

Geological facts

This material is often chemically identical to limestone and marble, but prized for its unique wave-like 'oncolitic' or dripstone banding patterns. Because it is soft, it is very easy to carve but can be easily scratched by a copper penny.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its softness (scratched by a steel nail) and vigorous effervescence (bubbling) when a drop of cold dilute hydrochloric acid is applied. Common locations include Mexico, Utah (USA), and Pakistan.

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