mineral

Orange calcite

Calcite, CaCO₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Salmon-orange, translucent to opaque, vitreous to pearly luster, and prominent rhombohedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity about 2.7. The rough, fractured specimen is consistent with calcite, though color alone cannot confirm identification.

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in limestone and other carbonate deposits, hydrothermal veins, and caves; commonly develops through precipitation or recrystallization of calcium carbonate. Such deposits range from recent to hundreds of millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Collected as a decorative mineral and sometimes carved or polished; calcite is also an important industrial source of lime and cement and is used as a flux and filler.

Geological facts

Calcite fizzes in dilute acid and shows strong birefringence in clear pieces. Orange color commonly comes from trace iron or other impurities.

Field identification & locations

Look for soft material, rhombohedral cleavage, and acid effervescence; calcite occurs worldwide in carbonate rocks and veins. Confirm with a hardness or acid test, as other orange minerals can look similar.