Rock Identifier
Yellow calcite (honey calcite) (Calcite, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)) — mineral
mineral

Yellow calcite (honey calcite)

Calcite, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent yellow-orange piece with a vitreous to pearly luster and likely cleavage faces. Mohs hardness 3; trigonal crystal structure; specific gravity about 2.71. A photo alone cannot confirm the identification.

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Physical properties

Translucent yellow-orange piece with a vitreous to pearly luster and likely cleavage faces. Mohs hardness 3; trigonal crystal structure; specific gravity about 2.71. A photo alone cannot confirm the identification.

Formation & geological history

Calcite commonly forms by precipitation from mineral-rich water or in limestone and hydrothermal veins; it occurs from many geological ages. Yellow color can result from trace impurities.

Uses & applications

Used as a mineral specimen and, when clear and well formed, for decorative objects; calcite is also an important raw material for cement and lime.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces in dilute acid and exhibits strong double refraction in clear crystals. This specimen’s color and shape are suggestive but not diagnostic.

Field identification & locations

Check for softness and vigorous fizzing with dilute acid; calcite is widespread in sedimentary rocks and hydrothermal deposits worldwide. Avoid scratching or acid-testing a valuable specimen.