mineral
Tumbled orange calcite
Calcite (CaCO₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectLikely Mohs hardness 3; orange to honey-brown with whitish veining and a polished, vitreous-to-waxy luster. Calcite has a trigonal crystal structure and perfect rhombohedral cleavage; the photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
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Physical properties
Likely Mohs hardness 3; orange to honey-brown with whitish veining and a polished, vitreous-to-waxy luster. Calcite has a trigonal crystal structure and perfect rhombohedral cleavage; the photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
Formation & geological history
Forms when calcium carbonate precipitates from groundwater or hydrothermal fluids, and in limestone deposits; calcite occurs in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Commonly sold as a decorative or collector stone; calcite is also used in cement, lime, and building materials.
Geological facts
Calcite effervesces in dilute acid and is much softer than quartz; orange coloring commonly comes from iron-bearing impurities.
Field identification & locations
The rounded, glossy surface suggests a tumbled specimen. Check softness and acid reaction to distinguish calcite from harder orange stones; calcite is widespread worldwide.
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