mineral
Orange Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, honey, or salmon; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Orange, honey, or salmon
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Orange, honey, or salmon; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed through chemical precipitation in sedimentary environments or in hydrothermal veins, often found in massive form rather than distinct crystals. Common in massive blocks within limestone or marble deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental carvings, decorative home decor, lapidary work (cabochons), and as a collector's mineral specimen. Some industrial uses in acid neutralization.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. The orange variety gets its color from tiny inclusions of hematite or iron oxide. It exhibits double refraction when clear.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its 3-way rhombohedral cleavage and its vigorous reaction (fizzing) when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It is much softer than quartz. Common locations include Mexico, Utah (USA), and Brazil.
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