mineral
Banded Calcite (often sold as Caribbean Calcite or Honey Calcite)
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, brown, and white banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Cream, tan, brown, and white banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, brown, and white banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through the precipitation of calcium-rich waters in sedimentary environments, often in caves or hot springs as travertine or flowstone.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as decorative display pieces (towers/points), lapidary art, and in the metaphysical community for collecting.
Geological facts
While often marketed as 'Caribbean Calcite' if it contains blue hues, this specimen is a variety of aragonite/calcite transition. It is very soft and will react (fizz) if exposed to weak acids like vinegar.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic banding, waxy texture, and softness (it can be scratched by a copper penny or steel knife). Commonly sourced from Pakistan and Mexico.
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Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
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