mineral
Yellow Calcite
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 3, vitreous to resinous luster, pale yellow to golden amber color, rhombohedral cleavage, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity ~2.71
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 3, vitreous to resinous luster, pale yellow to golden amber color, rhombohedral cleavage, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity ~2.71
Formation & geological history
Forms through chemical precipitation in sedimentary basins, hydrothermal veins, and hot springs, often associated with carbonatites or limestone deposits
Uses & applications
Used as mineral specimens, lapidary carvings, tumbled stones for crystal collections, and historically in optical instruments
Geological facts
Calcite exhibits strong double refraction (birefringence), meaning light passing through the crystal splits into two rays, creating a double image when looking through transparent pieces
Field identification & locations
Identified by its softness (can be scratched by a copper coin or steel blade), perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and strong effervescence when exposed to cold dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Mexico, Brazil, USA, and Madagascar
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