mineral

Banded Calcite (Honey Calcite / Onyx Marble)

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Honey-yellow, golden-orange to brownish. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in 3 directions. Specific Gravity: 2.71.

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Honey-yellow, golden-orange to brownish
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

Explore Banded Calcite (Honey Calcite / Onyx Marble) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through precipitation from mineral-rich waters in geothermal hot springs, caves (as flowstone/stalagmites), or sedimentary environments containing calcium-rich groundwater.

Uses & applications

Used widely in ornamental carvings, decorative tiles, cabochons, lapidary art, and metaphysical crystal collecting.

Geological facts

Banded calcite is frequently mislabeled in the trade as 'Mexican Onyx' or 'Onyx Marble', though true onyx is a parallel-banded variety of chalcedony (silica), whereas calcite is calcium carbonate.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct translucent honey-colored bands, soft hardness (can be scratched by a copper coin or iron nail), and effervescence (fizzing) when exposed to weak acids like vinegar.

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