
mineral
Blue Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Sky blue to pale blue; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Sky blue to pale blue
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Sky blue to pale blue; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed in sedimentary environments through chemical precipitation from calcium-rich waters, or in metamorphic marble deposits. It is commonly associated with limestone and marble formations across various geological eras.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons and carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors. Industrially, calcite is used in cement and lime production.
Geological facts
Blue Calcite is often referred to as a 'stone of the mind' in metaphysical circles. It is unique among calcites for its soft blue hue, which is caused by the inclusion of various metal ions during formation.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its sky-blue color, characteristic waxy luster, and its reaction (effervescence) when touched by a drop of dilute hydrochloric acid. It is very soft and can be scratched by a copper penny. Common locations include Mexico, Madagascar, and Brazil.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral