mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-orange to peach; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Honey-orange to peach
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-orange to peach; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary processes, often as a precipitate in marine environments or through hydrothermal activity. Found in massive forms or as rhombohedral crystals.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for lapidary work, decorative carvings, metaphysical collection, and as an ore of calcium for chemical industries.

Geological facts

Orange calcite gets its vibrant color from minute inclusions of hematite or other iron oxides. It is highly reactive to cold dilute hydrochloric acid, which will cause it to effervesce (fizz).

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 75-degree rhombohedral cleavage and relative softness (can be scratched by a copper coin but not a fingernail). Widely found in Mexico and Brazil.