mineral

Tumbled yellow calcite

Calcite (calcium carbonate, CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically pale yellow to honey-colored, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-pearly luster and cloudy banding. Mohs hardness 3; rhombohedral crystal system and perfect rhombohedral cleavage, though tumbling has rounded the surface.

Identified September 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in limestone, marble, hydrothermal veins, caves, and evaporite environments through precipitation or alteration. Calcite occurs from ancient Precambrian rocks to modern cave deposits; this specimen is human-tumbled.

Uses & applications

Used in cement, lime, construction aggregate, glass manufacture, soil treatment, and chemical industries; attractive pieces are sold as decorative or metaphysical specimens.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces vigorously in cold dilute hydrochloric acid and may fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Its rhombohedral cleavage and low hardness distinguish it from harder yellow quartz varieties.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, especially in limestone regions, Mexico, the United States, Iceland, and China. A likely identification is confirmed if it scratches easily with a steel knife and reacts with dilute acid; visual identification alone cannot exclude yellow aragonite or dyed material.