mineral
Yellow Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep yellow; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale to deep yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale to deep yellow; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in three directions; Specific gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Commonly forms in sedimentary environments through chemical precipitation or as a primary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It can also form in hydrothermal veins or as cave deposits.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacture of lime, cement, and fertilizer. Clear specimens are used in optical instruments. Yellow varieties are popular for lapidary work, jewelry, and as decorative metaphysical 'healing' stones.
Geological facts
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and is the primary component of limestone and marble. It exhibits strong double refraction, where a single crystal can cause an image seen through it to appear double.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its 3-way rhombohedral cleavage and its vigorous effervescence (bubbling) when a drop of cold dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) is applied. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Mexico, Brazil, and the USA.
