mineral

Honey Calcite

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Amber, gold, honey-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Amber, gold, honey-yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, often precipitated from calcium-rich solutions in caves (as flowstone) or in hydrothermal veins. It can be found in rocks of various geological ages from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative stone, for lapidary work (cabochons), and as a popular metaphysical or collector's mineral specimen. Large scale calcite is used in lime and cement production.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. Honey calcite's specific golden hue is often due to trace amounts of iron. It exhibits double refraction (birefringence), where light splitting creates a double image when viewed through a clear crystal.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its rhombohedral cleavage, its softness (can be scratched by a copper coin), and its strong effervescent reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Mexico, USA, and Brazil.