mineral

Orange Calcite (Banded Calcite)

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-orange with cream banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Honey-orange with cream banding
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified April 29, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-orange with cream banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed through the deposition of calcium carbonate in aqueous environments, often in caves as flowstone or around hot springs, resulting in distinct parallel banding layers.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for ornamental carvings, decorative sculptures, metaphysical use, and lapidary items such as the pumpkin shape shown.

Geological facts

Orange calcite is often mistakenly marketed as 'Orange Onyx' due to its banding, but it is actually a carbonate mineral. It is famous for its bright, sunny colors caused by iron inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its softness (can be scratched by a copper coin) and strong effervescence when exposed to weak acid. Common in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral