mineral

Orange calcite (likely honey calcite)

Calcite, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically translucent orange to honey-colored, with vitreous to pearly luster and prominent rhombohedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.71. The rough, sugary appearance may also indicate a calcite-rich aggregate.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms from carbonate-rich groundwater, hydrothermal fluids, or sedimentary limestone recrystallization; orange color commonly comes from iron or other trace impurities. Calcite deposits range from ancient to modern geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in cement, lime, construction aggregate, soil treatment, and chemical industries; attractive orange specimens are sold for collecting and occasional lapidary display.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid or household vinegar, though vinegar reacts more slowly. It can be scratched easily with a steel blade or even a copper coin.

Field identification & locations

Likely calcite if it shows rhombohedral cleavage and bubbles with acid; common worldwide in Mexico, the United States, Brazil, China, and Morocco. The image alone cannot exclude orange aragonite or chalcedony.