mineral

Yellow Calcite

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to honey-gold; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

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

Identified June 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to honey-gold; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Forms in sedimentary environments through chemical precipitation from calcium-rich solutions, or in metamorphic marble. This specimen appears to be acid-washed/polished mass.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacture of cement and mortar, as an ornamental stone, and is highly popular among crystal collectors and for metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Calcite is the most stable polymorph of calcium carbonate and is known for its double refraction property. It can dissolve in weak acids, which is often used as a diagnostic test.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its relative softness (scratched by a copper coin) and rhombohedral cleavage. Can be found worldwide, with major deposits in Mexico, USA, and Brazil.