mineral

Green Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to sea-foam green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale to sea-foam green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified February 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, primarily the precipitation of calcium-rich solutions in marine environments or hydrothermal veins. It occurs in various geological ages ranging from the Precambrian to the Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons or carvings, and as a popular specimen for metaphysical collectors. Industrially, calcite is used in cement, lime, and neutralized acids.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. Green calcite specifically gets its color from chlorite trapped during the crystallization process. It exhibits double refraction (birefringence) if transparent enough.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its characteristic 3-way rhombohedral cleavage and its rapid effervescence (bubbling) when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It is commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA (notably Arizona).