mineral
Orange calcite
Calcite, CaCO₃
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOrange to salmon-colored, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous to pearly luster and prominent rhombohedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 3. The rough, pale streaks and blocky cleavage are consistent with calcite, though a photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Orange calcite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Orange to salmon-colored, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous to pearly luster and prominent rhombohedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 3. The rough, pale streaks and blocky cleavage are consistent with calcite, though a photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
Formation & geological history
Forms when calcium-carbonate-rich fluids precipitate in veins, cavities, and sedimentary settings; calcite occurs in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in cement and lime production, agricultural products, and as a decorative or collectible mineral; attractive pieces may be polished or carved.
Geological facts
Calcite effervesces in dilute acid and is strongly birefringent in clear crystals.
Field identification & locations
Look for soft, easily scratched surfaces and rhombohedral cleavage; orange calcite is found in deposits worldwide, including Mexico. Similar-looking orange minerals can require hardness or acid tests to distinguish.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous