mineral
Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, typically white, yellow, pink, or colorless, vitreous to earthy luster, rhombohedral crystal system, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, specific gravity of 2.71
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, typically white, yellow, pink, or colorless, vitreous to earthy luster, rhombohedral crystal system, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, specific gravity of 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed in sedimentary environments through precipitation of calcium carbonate from marine waters, as well as in hydrothermal veins and caves as stalactites and stalagmites.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction as limestone and marble, in the manufacture of cement, neutralizing soil acidity, and as optical material.
Geological facts
Calcite exhibits strong double refraction (birefringence), meaning light passing through it splits into two separate rays.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage and strong effervescence (fizzing) when exposed to weak hydrochloric acid.
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