mineral

Yellow calcite (rough specimen)

Calcite, CaCO₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale yellow, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous to pearly luster and prominent cleavage; trigonal crystal system, Mohs hardness 3, specific gravity about 2.7. The image is consistent with calcite, though color alone cannot confirm identification.

Identified October 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in sedimentary limestone and caves, and in hydrothermal veins; calcite occurs in rocks of many ages, from ancient deposits to modern cave formations.

Uses & applications

Used to make cement and lime, as a building and agricultural material, and as a collectible mineral; clear varieties may be cut for display, but calcite is too soft for most everyday jewelry.

Geological facts

Calcite effervesces in dilute acid and splits readily along three directions into rhombohedra; its double refraction is especially visible in transparent crystals.

Field identification & locations

Look for softness, rhombohedral cleavage, and fizzing with dilute acid; common worldwide in limestone regions, caves, and veins. Confirm with hardness or acid tests, since other pale-yellow minerals can look similar.