metamorphic

Banded calcite (banded limestone/marble fragment)

Calcite, CaCO₃; likely banded calcitic marble or recrystallized limestone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Cream, tan, and brown flowing bands; waxy to dull luster; hardness about 3 Mohs, with strong effervescence in dilute hydrochloric acid. Calcite is trigonal and has excellent rhombohedral cleavage; the specimen appears polished or naturally smoothed.

Identified September 21, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Banded calcite (banded limestone/marble fragment) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from carbonate sediment that was lithified and variably recrystallized during metamorphism, producing the banding; age cannot be determined from the photograph. Similar material occurs in marbles and travertine-related deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carvings, countertops, aggregate, and cement feedstock; attractive pieces are sold as lapidary specimens.

Geological facts

The layered appearance may reflect original sedimentary bedding, impurities, or mineral-rich fluids rather than true crystal banding.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its low hardness, pale color, rhombohedral cleavage, and acid fizz; a steel knife can scratch it. Common sources include Italy, Turkey, Mexico, Pakistan, and the United States.