mineral

Yellow calcite (likely honey/yellow calcite)

Calcite, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically pale yellow to honey-colored, translucent, and vitreous to pearly, with prominent rhombohedral cleavage; Mohs hardness 3 and specific gravity about 2.71. The rough, sugary-looking texture and broad cleavage surfaces fit calcite, though image-only identification is not definitive.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, limestone cavities, and sedimentary carbonate deposits through precipitation from calcium-rich fluids; specimens may range from modern deposits to Paleozoic and younger host rocks. It commonly occurs with quartz, dolomite, and sulfide minerals.

Uses & applications

Used industrially for cement, lime, aggregate, and chemical production; attractive transparent or vividly colored crystals are collected and occasionally used decoratively. This rough specimen has modest gem value.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces strongly with dilute hydrochloric acid and shows birefringence when clear. Its rhombohedral cleavage distinguishes it from similarly colored quartz, which is harder and lacks cleavage.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Mexico, Iceland, the United States, China, and Peru. Test cautiously with a steel nail and dilute acid on an inconspicuous spot; likely value is about $2-$15 for a small common rough piece, or $20-$100+ if unusually clear, large, or well-crystallized.