mineral

Green Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to lime green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy/soapy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale green to lime green
Luster: Vitreous to waxy/soapy

Identified July 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, often in marine environments via chemical precipitation or as a secondary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal activity. It is common in limestone and marble formations.

Uses & applications

Used primarily by collectors and in the metaphysical community. Industrial uses for calcite include acid neutralization, building stone, and as a component in cement, though green varieties are mostly aesthetic.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth, but the green coloration is specifically caused by chlorite inclusions trapped during the crystallization process. It reacts vigorously (bubbles) when touched with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light green waxy appearance and extreme softness (can be scratched by a copper coin). Popular locations include Mexico and Brazil. Collectors should be careful as it is very fragile and can be dissolved by acids.