mineral
Banded Calcite (Honey Calcite)
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to amber with white or brown banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Honey yellow to amber with white or brown banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Banded Calcite (Honey Calcite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to amber with white or brown banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through chemical precipitation in sedimentary environments such as hot springs, caves as stalactites/stalagmites, or hydrothermal veins. This specimen shows distinct layering characteristic of travertine or onyx-calcite deposition.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental purposes, carvings, decorative stones, and metaphysical collecting. Also used in the production of lime and cement in industrial forms.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and is the primary constituent of limestone and marble. It is famous for its double refraction and its ability to effervesce (fizz) when in contact with dilute acid.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a copper penny) and its reaction to acid. Often found in limestone quarries or cave-rich regions. Collectors value specimens with clear honey-colored transparency.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock