
mineral
Blue Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale sky blue to light blue-grey; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale sky blue to light blue-grey
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Blue 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: Pale sky blue to light blue-grey; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through sedimentary processes or as a secondary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks via hydrothermal activity. Blue varieties often contain impurities that create the distinct color.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons and carvings, and as a popular metaphysical or collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Blue calcite is known for its 'soapy' or waxy feel when polished. It is extremely soft, meaning it can be easily scratched by a copper penny or a steel knife.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its rhombohedral cleavage, its softness (reacts to dilute HCl), and its distinct waxy luster. Commonly found in large masses rather than distinct crystals in locations like Mexico, Madagascar, and Brazil.
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
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock