mineral

Orange Calcite

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: pale orange to honey yellow; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: pale orange to honey yellow
Luster: vitreous to waxy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: pale orange to honey yellow; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed through chemical precipitation in sedimentary environments such as marine settings or as hot spring deposits (travertine). It can also occur in hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative stone, in jewelry (mostly cabochons/beads), for metaphysical collecting, and as a source of industrial lime and cement.

Geological facts

Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. Orange varieties get their color from hematite inclusions or other iron-based mineral traces during formation.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its 3-way rhombohedral cleavage and its rapid effervescence (bubbling) when exposed to cold dilute hydrochloric acid or vinegar. Common in many global locations including Mexico, USA, and Brazil.