mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange to honey-gold; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often seen in rhombohedral cleavage fragments); Cleavage: Perfect in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Orange to honey-gold
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, chemical precipitation in caves, or hydrothermal activity. It is a common constituent of limestone and marble and can be found in a wide variety of geological settings from the Paleozoic era to the present.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative specimens, in gemstone therapy, as a source for calcium in the chemical industry, and occasionally as a low-hardness ornamental stone for carving.

Geological facts

Calcite is known for its strong double refraction (birefringence); if you look through a clear piece, images appear doubled. Orange calcite specifically gets its color from tiny inclusions of hematite or other iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its high reactivity to dilute hydrochloric acid (it will fizz) and its ability to be scratched by a copper coin but not a fingernail. It is abundantly found in Mexico, USA, and Brazil.