mineral
Green Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) with trace impurities
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to sea-foam green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy/soapy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often occurs in massive form like this specimen); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale green to sea-foam green
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy/soapy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to sea-foam green; Luster: Vitreous to waxy/soapy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often occurs in massive form like this specimen); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral.
Formation & geological history
Formed through sedimentation or in hydrothermal veins. The green color is typically attributed to chlorite or other mineral inclusions trapped during the crystallization of the calcite in aqueous environments.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacture of cement and lime, as environmental pH neutralizers, in ornaments, and widely in metaphysical or lapidary collections.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth, but the green variety is prized by collectors for its soothing color. It will effervesce (fizz) vigorously when it comes into contact with dilute hydrochloric acid.
Field identification & locations
Check for the characteristic 'waxy' feel and soft surface (can be scratched by a copper coin). Look for rhombohedral cleavage planes. Commonly found in Mexico and Brazil.
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