sedimentary
Black Limestone
Bituminous Limestone (Calcium Carbonate - CaCO3)
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Dark gray to black with white calcite veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Structure: Massive or bedded; Cleavage: Rhombohedral (in mineral form), blocky fracture in rock.
- Hardness
- 3-4 (Mohs)
- Color
- Dark gray to black with white calcite veins
- Luster
- Dull to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Dark gray to black with white calcite veins; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Structure: Massive or bedded; Cleavage: Rhombohedral (in mineral form), blocky fracture in rock.
Formation & geological history
Formed in marine environments from the accumulation of organic remains and calcium carbonate. The dark color often comes from organic carbon or bitumen content. Common in Paleozoic and Mesozoic sedimentary basins.
Uses & applications
Used in construction as crushed stone, dimension stone for flooring or countertops, and as a source for lime and cement production.
Geological facts
When scratched or struck, some black limestones emit a foul odor due to the presence of trapped organic matter (bitumen), leading to the name 'Stinkstone'.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its dark color and high reactivity (fizzing) when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It often features contrasting white veins of recrystallized calcite.
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