mineral

Polished green calcite (often marketed as “onyx marble” or “Pakistan onyx”)

Calcite, CaCO₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale yellow-green, translucent, with a glossy polish and visible cleavage; calcite has Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, vitreous-to-pearly luster, and specific gravity about 2.7. The egg-shaped form is carved and polished.

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Calcite forms in sedimentary and hydrothermal settings, including limestone caves and mineral-rich springs; deposits range from recent to hundreds of millions of years old. The photograph alone cannot establish the specimen’s exact source or age.

Uses & applications

Carved decorative object or paperweight; calcite is also used in cement, lime, and construction stone, while banded varieties are used for ornamental slabs.

Geological facts

“Onyx marble” is a trade name for banded calcite or aragonite, not true quartz onyx. Calcite is readily scratched by a steel point and fizzes in dilute acid.

Field identification & locations

Likely identified by its pale translucent color, polished appearance, and low hardness; similar decorative calcite is widely quarried in Pakistan, Mexico, and elsewhere. Avoid acids and abrasive cleaning.