mineral

Honey Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow to amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Golden yellow to amber
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow to amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, typically in marine environments from the accumulation of shell, coral, and algal debris, or as precipitates from groundwater in caves and veins. Found across various geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative specimens, in gemstone therapy, for carving figurines, and occasionally as minor jewelry pieces. Industrially, calcite is used in lime production and agriculture.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on earth. The 'Honey' variety gets its distinctive golden hue from iron impurities. It exhibits double refraction (birefringence), where light passing through it splits into two rays.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive waxy texture and rhombohedral cleavage. It can be confirmed with the 'acid test' as it fizzes vigorously in diluted hydrochloric acid or even vinegar. Commonly found in Mexico, USA, and Brazil.