
mineral
Orange Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 on Mohs scale (can be scratched by a copper coin); Color: Light orange to deep amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale (can be scratched by a copper coin)
- Color
- Light orange to deep amber
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Orange Calcite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale (can be scratched by a copper coin); Color: Light orange to deep amber; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through sedimentary processes, often precipitated from marine environments or found as vein fillings in igneous or metamorphic rocks. It can also form in hot spring deposits as travertine. The age varies based on the host geological formation.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for decorative objects, tumbled stones for collectors, and in the metaphysical community. In industry, calcite is a primary component of limestone and marble used in cement and soil treatment.
Geological facts
Orange Calcite is often referred to as the 'Stone of the Mind' in lapidary circles. It is highly reactive to cold dilute hydrochloric acid, which causes it to effervesce or fizz instantly.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its softness (3), waxy texture when tumbled, and the acid test. Look for its characteristic rhombohedral cleavage if the specimen is broken. It is commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, and parts of the USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary