mineral
Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to white, yellow, orange, or pink, vitreous to earthy luster, rhombohedral crystal structure, perfect cleavage in three directions, specific gravity of 2.71.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to white, yellow, orange, or pink, vitreous to earthy luster, rhombohedral crystal structure, perfect cleavage in three directions, 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 metamorphic marbles.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction (as limestone and marble), agriculture (soil neutralization), manufacture of cement and lime, and as optical material in specialized equipment.
Geological facts
Calcite exhibits strong birefringence (optical double refraction), meaning light passing through it splits into two rays, creating a double image effect.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage and strong effervescence (fizzing) when dilute hydrochloric acid is applied.
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