mineral

Yellow Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream to pale yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Cream to pale yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream to pale yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes such as chemical precipitation in marine environments or hydrothermal veins. It is a common constituent of sedimentary rocks like limestone and marble (metamorphic version).

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry as beads or cabochons, decorative carvings, metaphysical 'healing' stones, and industrially in the production of cement and lime.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and exhibits the property of double refraction, where a single beam of light entering the crystal is split into two. It reacts vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its low hardness (can be scratched by a copper coin) and rhombohedral cleavage. Common locations include Mexico, Brazil, and the USA. For collectors, look for translucency and consistent colorSaturation.