mineral

Orange Calcite (often commercially sold as Honey Calcite or Aragonite)

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (soft); Color: Pale yellow to deep orange/amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (soft)
Color: Pale yellow to deep orange/amber
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, primarily in marine environments or as precipitates in hot springs and limestone caves. Most orange varieties are sourced from massive deposits found in Mexico or Utah, formed during various geological periods as karst deposits.

Uses & applications

Used extensively for decorative carvings, metaphysical 'healing' stones, jewelry (though fragile), and as a minor source for lime in industrial processes.

Geological facts

Orange calcite is strongly fluorescent under UV light in certain specimens. It is a 'soft' mineral, meaning it can be scratched by a copper penny or a stainless steel knife, making it popular for detailed carvings like the one shown.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its rhombohedral cleavage and its violent effervescence (bubbling) when exposed to cold dilute hydrochloric acid. It feels slightly 'soapy' or waxy compared to quartz.

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