sedimentary
Limestone with Calcite Veins
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray with white veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in calcite areas.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Gray with white veins
- Luster
- Dull to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray with white veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in calcite areas.
Formation & geological history
Formed in marine environments through the accumulation of shell, coral, and algal debris. The white veins are formed by secondary precipitation of calcite in rock fractures over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in the production of cement, as aggregate for road construction, as a soil conditioner in agriculture, and common in rock-tumbling for beginners.
Geological facts
Limestone covers about 10% of the Earth's total land surface. The white veins indicate where water once flowed through cracks in the rock, depositing minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its gray color and the white mineral veins that are softer than many other minerals. It will fizz (effervesce) if a small amount of household vinegar or weak acid is applied.
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