sedimentary
Pitted Limestone with Honeycomb Weathering
Karst-weathered fossiliferous limestone (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Light gray to off-white with dark hollows; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (calcite); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in individual crystals; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Light gray to off-white with dark hollows
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Light gray to off-white with dark hollows; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline (calcite); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in individual crystals; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation of marine organism shells and coral fragments in ancient shallow seas, subsequently subjected to differential subaerial weathering, dissolution by acidic rainwater (karst processes), and aeolian or marine erosion creating honeycomb-like cavities (tafoni).
Uses & applications
Used in construction, cement production, road aggregate, agricultural lime, and sometimes as architectural or landscaping feature stones due to its unique weathered texture.
Geological facts
The distinctive pitted pattern, known as tafoni or honeycomb weathering, is caused by salt weathering and the selective dissolution of softer mineral veins or fossil inclusions by moisture.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its pale color, reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid (effervescence), and characteristic pitted or honeycombed hollows filled with sand.
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