Mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcite (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, yellow, or pale amber. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect in three directions, forming rhombohedrons.

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Orange, yellow, or pale amber
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified June 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange, yellow, or pale amber. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect in three directions, forming rhombohedrons.

Formation & geological history

Forms in sedimentary environments, often from the accumulation of shell, coral, and algal debris, or from chemical precipitation. Can also occur in metamorphic or igneous settings. Age varies widely.

Uses & applications

Commonly collected as a mineral specimen due to its attractive color. Used in metaphysical practices. Industrial calcite is used in cements and as an acid neutralizer.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most widely distributed minerals on Earth and can show fluorescence under UV light.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its rhombohedral cleavage, hardness of 3 (can be scratched by a copper penny), and effervescence (fizzing) when exposed to weak acids like dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found worldwide, with notable deposits in Mexico.