mineral

Honey Calcite (Yellow Calcite)

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to golden-orange; Luster: Vitreous to resinous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Honey-yellow to golden-orange
Luster: Vitreous to resinous/waxy

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, primarily from the chemical precipitation of calcium carbonate in marine environments or groundwater. It is often found in massive form or as vein fillings. Geological age varies greatly but it is abundant in Paleozoic and Mesozoic rock layers.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and metaphysical collecting. In industrial form, calcite is used in cement, agriculture, and as a flux in metal smelting.

Geological facts

Honey Calcite is known for its 'double refraction' property (birefringence), where light passing through a clear specimen splits into two rays. It is one of the softest minerals used in jewelry, meaning it can be easily scratched by a steel knife or even a copper penny.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme softness (scratches with a copper coin) and its reactive nature—it will effervesce (fizz) vigorously when exposed to a drop of cold dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA.

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