RockVault
Calcite

Calcite

Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Ra%27ike" title="User:Ra'ike">Ra'ike</a> (see also: <a href="https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benutzer:Ra%27ike" class="extiw" title="de:Benutzer:Ra'ike">de:Benutzer:Ra'ike</a>) (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Mineral NameCalcite
Chemical FormulaCaCO3
Mohs Hardness3
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect rhombohedral in three directions
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.71
Colorswhite, colorless, gray, yellow, green, pink, blue, brown, orange
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityWorldwide
Mineral GroupCarbonates
Usesconstruction, optical instruments, soil treatment, antacids, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, fluorite, barite, sulfides
Raritycommon

Description

Calcite is a common and widespread mineral, often forming in a vast array of crystal habits and aggregates, typically appearing as white to colorless rhombohedral crystals or massive forms. It is characterized by its perfect rhombohedral cleavage and relatively low hardness.

Geological Context

Calcite is a primary component of sedimentary rocks like limestone and marble, formed from the accumulation of marine organism shells or chemical precipitation. It also occurs in hydrothermal veins, igneous rocks, and as a secondary mineral in many environments.

Related Specimens

Calcite | RockVault