mineral
Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: White, colorless, grey, yellow, green; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White, colorless, grey, yellow, green
- Luster
- Vitreous to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: White, colorless, grey, yellow, green; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through the precipitation of calcium carbonate from solution in marine, hydrothermal, or cave environments, spanning various geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacture of cement, lime, agriculture soil treatment, construction materials, and optical equipment.
Geological facts
Calcite exhibits strong double refraction (birefringence), where objects viewed through clear crystals appear doubled.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage and strong effervescence (fizzing) when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. Found worldwide in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous settings.
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