sedimentary
Tiger Carving (Banded Onyx or Calcite)
Banded Calcite (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: creams, tans, and browns with banding; Luster: vitreous to silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Generally soft and reactive to acids.
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- creams, tans, and browns with banding
- Luster
- vitreous to silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: creams, tans, and browns with banding; Luster: vitreous to silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Generally soft and reactive to acids.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a chemical sedimentary rock, typically through the cold-water precipitation of calcium carbonate in caves (stalagmites/stalactites) or spring deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental carvings, figurines, desk accessories, and decorative interior tiles or architectural accents.
Geological facts
While often sold as 'Mexican Onyx' or 'Pakistan Onyx', these specimens are actually banded calcite or aragonite, not true chalcedony-based onyx. The bands represent different layers of mineral deposition over time.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its visible parallel bands and softness (can be scratched by a knife). Frequently found in Mexico, Pakistan, and various limestone-rich regions worldwide.
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