mineral

Orange calcite

Calcite (calcium carbonate, CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically honey-orange to yellow, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-pearly luster and prominent rhombohedral cleavage. Mohs hardness 3; relatively low density (specific gravity about 2.71), with rhombohedral crystal structure.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms commonly in limestone, marble, hydrothermal veins, and evaporite environments through precipitation from carbonate-rich fluids; specimens may be geologically young or Precambrian depending on the host rock.

Uses & applications

Used industrially for cement, lime, aggregate, soil treatment, and chemical production; attractive orange specimens are sold to mineral collectors, though this piece appears modestly collectible.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces strongly in dilute hydrochloric acid and can show birefringence, producing doubled images through clear fragments. Orange coloration commonly results from iron, manganese, or other trace impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its orange color, soft easily scratched surface, rhombohedral cleavage, and acid reaction; common sources include Mexico, Brazil, the United States, and parts of Europe. Avoid harsh cleaning because cleavage surfaces chip readily.