mineral
Orange Calcite
Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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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.
