mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange to yellow-orange. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Trigonal, often massive or rhombohedral. Cleavage: Perfect in three directions. Specific gravity: 2.71.

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Orange to yellow-orange
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified September 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in sedimentary environments, often as a precipitate from calcium-rich water in caves or hot springs, or as a secondary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacture of cement and lime, agricultural soil treatments, and as a popular collector's mineral or for metaphysical uses.

Geological facts

Calcite is known for its strong double refraction (birefringence), especially clear varieties like Iceland Spar. It readily effervesces (fizzes) when a weak acid like hydrochloric acid is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (can be scratched by a copper penny), perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and reaction to weak acid. Commonly found worldwide, with notable orange varieties coming from Mexico.