mineral

Yellow Calcite (Carved Egg)

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to translucent pale yellow with cloudy inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal System: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through sedimentary chemical precipitation in marine or cave environments (such as travertine/stalagmites) or deposited by hydrothermal solutions circulating through fractured host rock.

Uses & applications

Commonly carved and polished into decorative shapes such as eggs, spheres, and figurines; widely sought by mineral collectors and used in decorative and metaphysical arts.

Geological facts

Calcite easily fizzes and effervesces when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth's crust and forms the primary constituent of limestone and marble.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a copper coin or steel knife), soft greasy/vitreous luster, and strong reaction to acid. Notable sources for ornamental yellow calcite include Mexico, China, Pakistan, and the United States.