mineral
Yellow calcite
Calcite (CaCO₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale honey-yellow to white, translucent and vitreous to pearly; Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, and prominent rhombohedral cleavage. The small, irregular piece appears rough or naturally broken; color alone cannot confirm the identification.
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Physical properties
Pale honey-yellow to white, translucent and vitreous to pearly; Mohs hardness 3, trigonal crystal structure, and prominent rhombohedral cleavage. The small, irregular piece appears rough or naturally broken; color alone cannot confirm the identification.
Formation & geological history
Calcite commonly forms when calcium-carbonate-rich water precipitates in caves, veins, and sedimentary settings, and also occurs in limestone and marble. It forms across many geologic ages.
Uses & applications
Used in cement and lime production, soil treatment, and as a decorative or teaching specimen; attractive transparent crystals may be collected.
Geological facts
Calcite fizzes in dilute acid and can show double refraction in clear crystals.
Field identification & locations
Check for softness and rhombohedral cleavage; a scratch test or acid test can help distinguish calcite from harder lookalikes. It is widespread worldwide in limestone deposits, veins, and caves.
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