
mineral
Blue Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to sky blue. 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 blue to sky blue
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale blue to sky blue. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions. Specific Gravity: 2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed through sedimentary processes, often by chemical precipitation from calcium-rich solutions or the accumulation of shell, coral, and algal debris. It can also form in hydrothermal veins or metamorphic environments (marble).
Uses & applications
Predominantly used as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for carvings, and as a popular 'healing' crystal in metaphysical practices. Industrial calcite is used in cement, antacids, and as a fertilizer.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and is the primary constituent of limestone and marble. The blue variety is particularly prized for its soothing aesthetic and is often found in large, rhombohedral 'cleavage rhombs'.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 3-direction rhombohedral cleavage (it breaks into tilted cubes/blocks) and its reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid (it will effervesce/fizz). It is soft enough to be scratched by a copper penny or a steel knife.
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