mineral
Orange Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale orange to deep reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy/resinous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale orange to deep reddish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy/resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale orange to deep reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy/resinous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed through sedimentary processes, often as chemical precipitates in marine environments or through hydrothermal activity. It can also be found in metamorphic rocks like marble.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, lapidary carvings, metaphysical collecting, and as a source of calcium in industrial applications like cement and lime production.
Geological facts
Calcite is unique for its double refraction property. Orange calcite specifically gets its warm hue from hematite or iron oxide inclusions within the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage and its rapid effervescence when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It is significantly softer than quartz, which it can superficially resemble.
