mineral

Green calcite (likely)

Calcite — calcium carbonate, CaCO₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale mint-green, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-pearly luster and irregular cleavage surfaces; Mohs hardness 3, rhombohedral crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.71. The color may result from trace metals or inclusions.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when calcium-rich groundwater precipitates carbonate, or through alteration of limestone and hydrothermal deposits; specimens may range from modern to Paleozoic or older depending on the host rock. The image is consistent with a rough broken fragment rather than a crystal face.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a collector specimen and occasionally for ornamental stone; calcite is also important industrially in cement, lime, aggregate, and soil treatment. Green calcite generally has modest gem value because it is relatively soft and commonly cloudy.

Geological facts

It effervesces vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid and shows perfect rhombohedral cleavage. Common sources include Mexico, Brazil, China, and the United States.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its pale green color, softness, cleavage, and acid reaction; distinguish it from fluorite by calcite’s stronger cleavage and acid effervescence. The image alone cannot exclude pale green aragonite or prehnite.