mineral

Polished calcite (likely honey/yellow calcite)

Calcite, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Cream to honey-yellow, translucent, with a vitreous to pearly luster and prominent white cleavage/fracture patterns. Mohs hardness 3; rhombohedral crystal structure, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, specific gravity about 2.71.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in limestone, marble, hydrothermal veins, caves, and sedimentary evaporite settings through precipitation or recrystallization. Calcite occurs from recent deposits to rocks hundreds of millions of years old; the specimen appears cut or polished.

Uses & applications

Used in cement, lime, construction aggregate, glass manufacture, soil treatment, and as a decorative or lapidary stone. Common polished pieces have modest collector value.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid or household vinegar, especially on a fresh surface; it also shows strong birefringence, producing doubled images through clear pieces.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, including Mexico, the United States, Iceland, and Brazil. Identify by its softness, rhombohedral cleavage, and acid reaction; distinguish from quartz, which is harder and does not fizz.