mineral
Orange Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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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.
