mineral

Yellow Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep yellow; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale to deep yellow
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified May 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in sedimentary environments through chemical precipitation or as a primary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It can also form in hydrothermal veins or as cave deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacture of lime, cement, and fertilizer. Clear specimens are used in optical instruments. Yellow varieties are popular for lapidary work, jewelry, and as decorative metaphysical 'healing' stones.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and is the primary component of limestone and marble. It exhibits strong double refraction, where a single crystal can cause an image seen through it to appear double.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its 3-way rhombohedral cleavage and its vigorous effervescence (bubbling) when a drop of cold dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) is applied. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA.