mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange to honey-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Orange to honey-yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, often precipitated from calcium-rich solutions in marine environments or hydrothermal veins. It can be found in limestone caves as speleothems or in massive form in marble or sedimentary beds.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, in lapidary work for carvings and spheres, and as a source of calcium in industrial chemical applications. It is also a popular specimen for crystal collectors.

Geological facts

Calcite is famous for its double refraction property, where a ray of light entering the crystal is split into two rays. It is the primary constituent of limestone and marble.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable in the field by its rhombohedral cleavage and its 'fizz' reaction when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It can be easily scratched by a copper coin or a knife, distinguishing it from quartz.