
mineral
Yellow Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to deep gold; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to deep gold
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to deep gold; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Forms through sedimentary processes such as chemical precipitation in marine environments or hydrothermal veins. It is found in deposits ranging from ancient Paleozoic to more recent Cenozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Used as an ornamental stone, in metaphysical practices (healing crystals), as a source of lime in cement, and as a decorative polished palm stone.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth. Yellow variations get their color from iron impurities. It exhibits double refraction (birefringence) in clear specimens.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its softness (can be scratched by a copper coin) and its effervescent reaction when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous