mineral
Calcite (Honey Calcite and Agate)
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from honey yellow to amber, vitreous to resinous luster, trigonal crystal system, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, specific gravity of 2.71.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from honey yellow to amber, vitreous to resinous luster, trigonal crystal system, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, specific gravity of 2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed in sedimentary environments through the precipitation of calcium carbonate from water, as well as in hydrothermal veins and hot spring deposits.
Uses & applications
Used in construction materials (cement, lime), optical equipment, fertilizers, and as decorative mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Calcite is the primary constituent of limestone and marble and exhibits strong double refraction (birefringence), making objects viewed through clear pieces appear doubled.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage and strong effervescence (bubbling) when exposed to weak hydrochloric acid. Commonly found worldwide in sedimentary rock formations.
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