mineral

Green Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to lime green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale green to lime green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to lime green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Forms through sedimentary processes, chemical precipitation, or in metamorphic environments (marble). It often crystallizes from calcium-rich hydrothermal solutions in rock cavities.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, a source of lime in cement, acid neutralization in industry, and highly valued by collectors for its color and metaphysical associations.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and exhibits double refraction if clear enough. Green calcite specifically gets its color from chlorite trapped during crystallization.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its softness (scratched by a copper penny), rhombohedral cleavage, and strong effervescence when exposed to weak acids like vinegar. Commonly found in Mexico and Brazil.