mineral
Rough yellow calcite
Calcite (CaCO₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall translucent honey-yellow to cream fragment with a vitreous-to-pearly luster and visible cleavage surfaces. Calcite has Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.7; the photo alone cannot confirm its identity.
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Physical properties
Small translucent honey-yellow to cream fragment with a vitreous-to-pearly luster and visible cleavage surfaces. Calcite has Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.7; the photo alone cannot confirm its identity.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sedimentary limestone and caves, hydrothermal veins, and other calcium-rich settings; specimens can range from geologically recent to hundreds of millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in cement and lime production, construction, and as a mineral specimen; attractive transparent pieces are sometimes cut or polished, though calcite is soft for everyday jewelry.
Geological facts
Calcite effervesces in dilute acid and can show strong double refraction in clear crystals.
Field identification & locations
Look for softness, rhombohedral cleavage, and acid reaction; common worldwide in limestone regions and hydrothermal deposits. A small rough fragment like this is typically worth about $1–$10 USD.
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